Rob Dillingham was selected eighth overall by the San Antonio Spurs, but traded for the Minnesota Timberwolves on draft night itself.
He came to the league with high ceilings and was advertised as becoming an elite guard.
However, Rob Dillingham struggled for a few minutes with the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the team was stacked with security guards such as Mike Conley, Nikkill Alexander Walker, Anthony Edwards and even Donte Divinsenzo.
For a limited time Dillingham earned, he showed off his abilities, including a match against the Utah Jazz, which scored 19 points and gave eight assists.
Heading into his first playoffs, the 20-year-old struggled with playing time. However, veteran point guard Mike Conley has made it clear that he sees something from the youngster and gives him confidence in the future.
With the OKC Thunder’s blowout game 5 victory, Dillingham scored seven points in minutes for the Timberwolves.
Conley praised Dillingham for putting in the job despite not having the opportunity to prove he had improved.
The veteran said: “Rob was growing up a lot. Obviously he didn’t get the chance to show exactly what he could improve, but from my perspective, you know.
“He’s been in the weight room a lot. He’s trying to use this opportunity to get his body to a certain level to get bigger and stronger.”
Conley has been part of the Timberwolves team for two years and although he has not been able to contribute on a large scale, the former All-Star is still a valuable player in the locker room.
Anthony Edwards revealed how he plans to work hard to win the Conley championship and showed the respect the players have for him.
His leadership certainly has a big impact on players like Dillingham, and the 20-year-old will take on a bigger role next year.
“I think he really keeps that in mind throughout the season, how much the season hits your body, how to try and sort it out, how to help you become a defender, and how to take the bumps and help you move forward.
“He’s excited to go to the season. He can really do it. You really know the lock-in and are ready to help this team next season,” Conley added.
The Timberwolves have played Conley in starting guard position throughout the season, and while the veteran has been an important piece to be considered in the West, it may be time to look at other options.
Having a player like Dillingham, who is very athletic in the guard position, is certainly a great option.
He hasn’t played all season, and Dillingham admitted he was scared when he came to the NBA.
But after his rookie season, where he was in the locker room with Ant-Man and the other stars, he will work more in the offseason and aim to get better for his next campaign.
Players like Alexander Walker and Divinsenzo are great security guards, but they have come out of the bench for most of their careers.
Whether the Timberwolves have decided to bring in a new PG is a question that only time will answer, but even if that’s not the case, Dillingham could be a player who will use it for a valuable few minutes next season.