DONTE DiVincenzo was caught in a heated exchange with members of the New York Knicks on Sunday night.
The former Knick returned to Madison Square Garden for the first time since his trade to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The 27-year-old was part of a blockbuster three-team NBA deal earlier this month.
And he was back in New York City for a pre-season game Sunday.
The game ended with DiVincenzo and Knicks assistant coach Rick Brunson needing to be separated by New York star guard Jalen Brunson.
DiVincenzo was seemingly annoyed when he stepped up to shoot some free throws in the first quarter.
He was heard on the ESPN broadcast referencing “Thibs” – New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau.
Some fans online claimed he said “Thanks for the trade, Thibs.”
But the 27-year-old insisted after the game, “I didn’t say thanks for the trade.”
Another theory was that the guard said, “Can’t finish right, Thibs.”
And he went on to say, “That’s what happens when they let you run the show.”
It was unclear what his words were in reference to or who exactly he was talking to.
Players and coaches shook hands after the game – which led to a potential flash point.
DiVincenzo was seen exchanging words with assistant coach Rick Brunson, who is Jalen Brunson’s dad.
Players stood in between the pair to avoid tempers boiling over.
The Timberwolves star was then led away to the locker room.
Jalen Brunson had an arm round DiVincenzo as the exchange was happening.
DiVincenzo returned to Madison Square Garden for the first time since being traded by the New York Knicks[/caption]
“My relationship with Jalen, that’s my brother and my best friend,” DiVincenzo said.
“That’s a separate relationship. I’ll talk about that privately, and figure everything out.”
Jalen Brunson played down the exchange between his did and former Knicks and Vilanova teammate.
He said, “It was words of affirmation.”
The Knicks beat the Timberwolves 115-110 in the preseason clash.
