The New York Knicks have quietly added a high-profile reclamation project, signing former lottery pick Rob Dillingham to their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. The 21-year-old guard, selected eighth overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, will look to revive his career in the Knicks' developmental system after being waived by the Charlotte Hornets in September. This move gives the organization a close look at a talented scorer without committing an NBA roster spot.
Dillingham arrives with a pedigree of elite scoring potential. He was a standout at Kentucky, averaging 15.2 points and 3.9 assists while shooting 44.4% from three-point range as a freshman. His quickness and shot creation made him a coveted prospect. Minnesota traded significant future assets, including an unprotected 2031 first-round pick, to acquire him on draft night. But his NBA journey stalled quickly. As a Timberwolves rookie, he managed just 4.5 points in 10.5 minutes per game across 49 appearances. A mid-season trade to Chicago in February 2026 offered a brief spark. With the Bulls, his playing time jumped to 21.5 minutes per game, and he averaged 9.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists over 30 games. His shooting efficiency dipped, however, hitting only 30% from deep.
For the New York Knicks front office, this is a classic no-lose scenario. They secure the rights to evaluate a former top-10 pick within their own program. Westchester reached the G League Finals last season and has a strong developmental track record. The roster already includes two-way players like Jaden Akins and Dalton Knecht. Dillingham will get the consistent minutes and offensive responsibility he has lacked to work on his decision-making and defensive consistency. If he rediscovers his Kentucky form, the Knicks could have a valuable asset. If not, they've invested only a G League contract. The team's primary focus remains on the NBA squad, which holds a strong 4-1 record in its last five games despite a 107-115 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 11.
The immediate path is clear: Rob Dillingham will suit up for the Westchester Knicks as their G League season gets underway. His performance there will dictate everything. He needs to prove he can be a reliable scorer and facilitator against G League competition. The Knicks will be watching his shooting percentages and overall efficiency closely. There is no guarantee of an NBA call-up, but the door is open. For the parent club, the next challenge is a quick turnaround on the road against the Indiana Pacers on November 13. Meanwhile, in Westchester, Dillingham gets a clean slate and a real chance to write a new chapter in his basketball story.
