Rob Dillingham has been named a breakout candidate for the Chicago Bulls ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. The team needs young players to step up, especially after closing the previous campaign with two consecutive losses, including a 149-128 defeat to the Dallas Mavericks on April 13, 2026.
The 2024 No. 8 overall pick is entering his first full season in Chicago. The Bulls acquired him from the Minnesota Timberwolves via trade last season. In 30 games for Chicago, Dillingham averaged 9.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 21.5 minutes per game. His role is expected to increase significantly this coming campaign.
With veteran guards now gone and Norman Powell added to the roster, Dillingham should have a secure spot in the rotation. The Bulls are a young team actively searching for players with upside, and Dillingham fits that profile. He needs to become a more consistent three-point shooter while playing alongside Josh Giddey. Defensively, his limited size means he will have to battle hard on every possession.
His development will be a key storyline under new head coach Tiago Splitter. Whatever his specific role becomes, Dillingham must maximize his opportunities on the court.
This is a massive prove-it year for Rob Dillingham. His contract includes a team option for the 2027-28 season. A productive campaign could save his NBA career and convince the Bulls to pick up that option. If he plays poorly, Chicago will likely decline it, making him an unrestricted free agent.
There is real pressure to perform. The Timberwolves essentially gave up on him in his second year, so he arrives in Chicago with something to demonstrate. His performance will directly impact the Bulls' backcourt planning and their financial decisions moving forward.
The Bulls' need for a breakout player is clear when looking at their recent results. Their form over the last five games was 2 wins and 3 losses (LLWWL). They lost their final two games of that stretch. After a 119-108 win in Washington on April 9, 2026, they fell 127-103 to the Orlando Magic on April 11 before the heavy loss in Dallas.
Other recent results include a 129-98 win over the Wizards on April 7, a 120-110 loss to Phoenix on April 5, and a 136-96 defeat to the New York Knicks on April 3. Contending in the competitive Eastern Conference requires more consistent production. Young players like Dillingham stepping up is not only a hope. It's a necessity for the team to climb the standings.
Developing internal talent is often more reliable than seeking external fixes. Dillingham's growth could provide a much-needed spark. The Bulls' front office and coaching staff will be watching his progress closely from day one of training camp. His ability to handle a larger workload and improve his shooting percentages will be under the microscope. Fans can track his and the team's progress through our detailed stats page throughout the season.
