In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves surprisingly traded up to the No. 8 pick to select Kentucky point guard Rob Dillingham. After that, many expected Dillingham to play a significant role as a rookie. However, across 49 games, Dillingham averaged just 10.5 minutes, 4.5 points, 2 assists, and 1 rebound. In the playoffs, Dillingham has played just 10 total minutes. This offseason, the Wolves are set to make a crucial decision about Dillingham.
Is Dillingham Conley's replacement?
Dillingham was drafted to replace an aging Mike Conley. However, given his lack of minutes as a rookie, it's fair to wonder if the Wolves still think he can be Conley's replacement. Dillingham dealt with ankle injuries throughout the season. Nevertheless, his lack of minutes is concerning.
The Wolves desperately need another guard who can create shots and run the offense. This flaw has been on full display during the Wolves' Western Conference Finals series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. On one hand, this could indicate Dillingham is poised for a bigger role next season. Conversely, since this has been a problem for the entirety of the season, it could mean Chris Finch and the Wolves' staff have lost faith in Dillingham. The latter could mean Dillingham is on the trade block this offseason, as a high-upside young player, he could be a valuable piece in a star trade. In this scenario, the Wolves would either trade for a guard or sign a cheap option in free agency to fill this void.
Dillingham's upside is undeniable
The main reason Dillingham didn't get many minutes as a rookie is defense. At 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds, Dillingham's frame will always make him a defensive target. Bulking up this offseason will be a must for Dillingham. However, the T-Wolves have the personnel to cover up Dillingham's deficiencies. Perhaps more importantly, Dillingham's offensive skill set and upside are enough to overcome his subpar defense. Even with constantly being targeted, Dillingham held up reasonably well as a rookie, posting a 43.2 defensive field goal percentage.
Offensively, Dillingham can create his own shot and playmake at a high level. Dillingham's speed, ball handling, passing, and scoring ability at all three levels make him highly impactful. Undoubtedly, Dillingham's shot creation and ability to score in bunches are his best traits. Impressively, Dillingham averaged 11.6 points and 5.6 assists when receiving 20-plus minutes. His impact as a shot creator and playmaker was clear when he got the opportunity.
some Rob Dillingham buckets: pic.twitter.com/Z9Rqnq1veJ
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) February 10, 2025
Making an immediate impact as a rookie guard is challenging, especially on a win-now team. Given his upside and solid flashes, Dillingham may be ready for more responsibilities in a spark plug role for the Wolves next season. However, his potential could entice other teams in a trade, and the Wolves may think he needs more time to develop.
Regardless, Dillingham's skill set is exactly what the T-Wolves need, and he should be in line for an increased role. He will only get better with more opportunity. Ultimately, the Wolves should only trade Dillingham if it helps them land a true star.