LeBron James calls out one Minnesota Timberwolves player, urges him to step up this season

LeBron James urges Rob Dillingham to step up for the Timberwolves

When assessing the Timberwolves, LeBron James believes Naz Reid and Donte DiVincenzo will be key contributors for maintaining competitiveness next season.

“They’re gonna just have guys have to step up. Naz, I think, just take another step. DiVincenzo another year under his belt with those guys,” James stated.

However, LeBron specifically questioned whether Rob Dillingham can elevate his game, particularly given his return from injury.

The 20-year-old’s development becomes crucial because primary point guard Mike Conley has passed his peak at age 38.

“Will Rob Dillingham, the kid that they drafted last year in the first round, will he make a step forward to help out take some pressure maybe off if Mike Conley doesn’t play a lot of games at later stage in his career,” James questioned.

Rob Dillingham’s playmaking development could address Mike Conley succession concern

Last season, Dillingham, selected eighth overall, appeared in just 49 games due to injury while averaging 4.5 points in 10.5 minutes per game.

If Dillingham demonstrates his potential, particularly in playmaking and ball-handling capabilities, he could become an important rotational piece for the Timberwolves.

His development would provide insurance against Conley’s declining availability and effectiveness.

The franchise needs Dillingham to progress beyond his injury-limited rookie campaign, establishing himself as a reliable backup who can eventually transition into a starting role as Conley’s career winds down.