Before the Minnesota Timberwolves’ second preseason matchup against the Indiana Pacers, Rob Dillingham shared his thoughts on the importance of earning playing time this season, particularly after spending much of his rookie year on the bench. “I’m extra happy to play, but also it means that much more to me because I haven’t played,” Dillingham expressed, emphasizing the significance of this opportunity for his growth.
Dillingham reflected on the dual nature of his situation, acknowledging both the positives and negatives. “Adversity comes with everything. So if you keep trying at it, you’re going to overcome it,” he explained. This mindset sets a hopeful tone as he aims to seize his chance to contribute to the team.
During the preseason, Dillingham showcased a blend of progress and lingering issues. He averaged 10.7 shots per game with a commendable shooting percentage of 45.3% and demonstrated impressive three-point shooting, converting 8 of 17 attempts across six games. His confidence in his shooting has noticeably improved, thanks to a year of dedicated work with his developmental coach, Pablo Prigioni.
Despite his successes, Dillingham still faces challenges, particularly related to his shooting mechanics, where he tends to jump too far forward instead of going straight up. Nonetheless, his overall consistency in shooting form has improved, providing a positive outlook for the upcoming season.
In addition to offensive growth, Dillingham has garnered praise for his defensive tenacity. While he may not be the tallest player, his effort on defense has caught the attention of his teammates. Naz Reid highlighted Dillingham’s heart and determination on the court, stating, “He’s not going to back down just because you’re taller or bigger.” This spirit is essential for his role, as he aims to make an impact by pressuring ball handlers, playing sound off-ball defense, and competing for rebounds.
However, Dillingham’s turnover tendencies remain a significant concern. His preseason statistics reveal a mixed bag regarding his control of the ball; he recorded three games with only one turnover while also having a stretch where he accumulated 12 turnovers. These inconsistencies will determine his playing time during the regular season, where minimizing mistakes will be crucial.
In conclusion, while Rob Dillingham faces an uphill battle to solidify his place in the Timberwolves’ rotation, his mindset of overcoming adversity and his commitment to improvement offer a promising glimpse into his potential. As Dillingham remarked, “Adversity comes with everything. So if you keep trying at it, you’re going to overcome it.” His journey reflects a resilient spirit, inspiring hope for his contributions to the Timberwolves this season.