Breaking: Rob Dillingham Waived by Hornets After Trade

Image Source: ESPN

Rob Dillingham is on the move again after the Charlotte Hornets decided to waive the former first-round pick just one day after acquiring him from the Chicago Bulls. The surprising decision was reported by ESPN on Monday, citing sources familiar with the situation.

The Hornets had completed a trade with Chicago that sent veteran guard Buddy Hield to the Bulls in exchange for Dillingham and cash. Instead of joining Charlotte’s roster, however, Dillingham is now expected to become a free agent once the waiver process is completed.

Rob Dillingham Waived in Stunning Roster Move

Dillingham’s release marks another abrupt turn in a difficult start to his professional career. The 21-year-old guard was selected eighth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2024 NBA draft after an impressive season at Kentucky.

To move up and select him, Minnesota reportedly sent two future first-round picks to San Antonio. The investment created significant expectations around Dillingham, who was viewed as an explosive scoring guard with the ball-handling ability and shooting range to develop into a major offensive contributor.

That development has not happened quickly. During more than two seasons with the Timberwolves, Dillingham struggled to establish himself in coach Chris Finch’s regular rotation. He never averaged more than 15 minutes per game for Minnesota, limiting his opportunity to build momentum at the NBA level.

A Rapid Path Through Three NBA Teams

Dillingham was traded from Minnesota to Chicago midway through last season. He appeared in 30 games for the Bulls, averaging 9.6 points and 2.8 assists while shooting 42.8% from the field.

Those numbers showed flashes of the offensive skill that made him a lottery selection, but they also reflected the inconsistency that has followed him since entering the league. Dillingham’s size, defensive limitations and difficulty earning consistent playing time have made it challenging for him to secure a stable role.

With the Hornets’ decision, Dillingham could be headed toward his third NBA team in only two years. The move is especially notable because Charlotte had just agreed to acquire him and had not yet given him an opportunity to appear in a game.

Why Did the Hornets Waive Rob Dillingham?

The full reasoning behind the decision has not been publicly explained. However, the transaction appears connected to Charlotte’s broader roster and financial planning. The Hornets created a $9.6 million trade exception through the deal and removed Hield’s multiyear contract from their books.

Waiving Dillingham may give Charlotte additional flexibility as the team evaluates its backcourt, salary structure and long-term roster priorities. The Hornets are also dealing with uncertainty surrounding young talent, including star guard Kon Knueppel, who has been sidelined by a hamstring injury.

For Dillingham, the immediate priority will be finding a team willing to provide a clearer development plan. His quickness, creative passing and ability to generate offense could make him an appealing low-cost option for a club searching for backcourt depth.

• Dillingham was the No. 8 pick in the 2024 NBA draft.
• Minnesota traded two future first-round picks to move up for him.
• He played 30 games for the Chicago Bulls.
• He averaged 9.6 points and 2.8 assists in Chicago.
• He shot 42.8% from the field during his Bulls stint.
• Charlotte created a $9.6 million trade exception in the transaction.

What Comes Next for the Former Lottery Pick?

The next few days could be critical for Dillingham’s career. Several teams may view him as a reclamation project who can add scoring punch and ballhandling without requiring a major financial commitment. A return to the G League is also possible if he does not immediately find a guaranteed NBA roster spot.

The biggest question is whether Dillingham can turn his offensive potential into reliable production. At Kentucky, he displayed confidence and creativity as a lead guard. In the NBA, he has rarely received enough minutes to establish rhythm or demonstrate that he can consistently hold up against larger, more physical guards.

His situation also illustrates how quickly roster decisions can change during the NBA offseason. One day, Dillingham was acquired as part of a trade; the next, he was no longer part of the Hornets’ plans. For a young player, that uncertainty can be difficult, but it may also create an opportunity to reset his career with a team prepared to invest in his development.

As reported by ESPN, Dillingham’s future will now depend on the waiver process and the interest he receives from other NBA organizations. His talent remains evident, but his next landing spot will be crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Charlotte Hornets waive Rob Dillingham?

The Hornets have not publicly detailed the specific reason. The move appears connected to roster construction and financial flexibility after acquiring Buddy Hield’s contract from Chicago.

What did Rob Dillingham average with the Bulls?

Dillingham averaged 9.6 points and 2.8 assists in 30 games for Chicago. He shot 42.8% from the field during his time with the Bulls.

How many NBA teams has Dillingham played for?

Dillingham has been linked with three NBA teams in two years: Minnesota, Chicago and Charlotte. He was waived by Charlotte before appearing in a game for the team.

What was Rob Dillingham’s draft position?

Minnesota selected Dillingham with the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft after trading two future first-round picks to move up.