Bulls’ Rob Dillingham Revitalized and Excels with New Team

Rob Dillingham’s arrival in Chicago has taken a clear turn. Traded from Minnesota at the deadline last month, he now appears more confident and engaged.

Background and early struggles

Dillingham was selected eighth overall in the 2024 draft by the Spurs. He was immediately dealt to the Timberwolves and spent a difficult year and a half there.

Minutes were scarce in Minnesota. Coaches often pulled him quickly after mistakes, which hurt his confidence.

New environment, different approach

Billy Donovan has used a contrasting method since Dillingham joined the Bulls. Donovan coaches firmly but gives the guard room to learn from errors.

That shift aims to reduce the player’s fear of mistakes. Donovan noted Dillingham was risk-averse when he arrived and has steadily become more comfortable.

Immediate results on the stat sheet

Recent games show measurable improvement. Over his last three outings, Dillingham averaged 13 points and five assists.

He shot 6-for-15 from beyond the arc during that stretch, a 40 percent mark. One of those nights included a 15-point effort against the Grizzlies.

Comparisons and progress

Those numbers are up from a prior 13-game span, when he averaged 6.4 points for the Bulls. The uptick suggests growing confidence.

Dillingham has said he feels “renewed” and credited Donovan for giving him a leash to play freely. He added that his mental state had suffered in recent months.

Learning from teammates

Off the court, Dillingham has sought help from teammates. He worked on finishing and strength in a postgame session with Tre Jones after the Grizzlies game.

Jones is listed as an inch shorter than Dillingham but carries more weight and a strong finishing ability. Dillingham has picked up techniques for attacking the rim.

Coach and player outlook

Donovan praises Dillingham’s work ethic and curiosity. He highlighted the player’s eagerness to ask questions and improve.

The coach also noted Dillingham needs to manage when he leaves his feet in the lane. Addressing that will help compensate for limited size.

Filmogaz.com will continue to track the guard’s development. Bulls’ Rob Dillingham Revitalized and Excels with New Team is becoming a theme in Chicago.