Former Timberwolves pick Rob Dillingham shows how tough the NBA is for young players

Rob Dillingham is currently out of the NBA just two years after the Minnesota Timberwolves drafted him eighth overall in 2024. Minnesota initially traded Dillingham to the Chicago Bulls for Ayo Dosunmu, after which Chicago sent him to the Charlotte Hornets for Buddy Hield before Charlotte waived him.

Writer Eamon Cassels argues that Dillingham's rapid departure from the league illustrates the razor-thin margin of error for young NBA prospects. Cassels points out that Dillingham's slight frame and defensive limitations severely hindered his development, making any potential return via a two-way contract a steep uphill battle.