New leadership reshapes the roster by flipping developmental guard Rob Dillingham for elite perimeter threat Buddy Hield, prioritizing immediate floor spacing to complement Chicago’s new playmaking core.
The Chicago Bulls are making another move just days before the start of training camp.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Bulls are trading Rob Dillingham to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for veteran sharpshooter Buddy Hield and cash considerations.
The move brings an abrupt end to Dillingham’s short stint in Chicago after the Bulls acquired him from the Minnesota Timberwolves at last season’s trade deadline. Dillingham was part of the package Chicago received for Ayo Dosunmu, along with Leonard Miller and four second-round picks.
At the time, Dillingham appeared to be an intriguing project for the Bulls. The former No. 8 overall pick was still just 21 years old was one of the most interesting guard prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Jan 26, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Rob Dillingham (4) dribbles against the Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) in the fourth quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn ImagesBut the Bulls have undergone significant changes since then.
Bryson Graham has taken control of the front office and has quickly begun reshaping Chicago’s roster around his own vision. Dillingham’s path to consistent minutes was already becoming difficult with Josh Giddey, Tre Jones and several other guards competing for touches.
Instead of forcing Rob Dillingham into the rotation for development, the Bulls decided to trade him in exchange for an immediate need: shooting.
Feb 3, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) shoots over Philadelphia 76ers forward Trendon Watford (12) during the second period at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn ImagesHield has established himself as one of the most prolific three-point shooters of his generation, knocking down more than 2,200 triples during his NBA career. Even as his overall role has declined, defenses still have to respect him whenever he steps onto the floor.
His movement shooting could be particularly useful alongside Giddey. Chicago wants to play fast and surround its primary creators with players capable of stretching defenses. Hield doesn't need the ball in his hands to make an impact, making him a potentially clean offensive fit with the Bulls’ young core that has questions about its' spacing.
The trade also continues a wild offseason for Hield.
Charlotte acquired him from the Atlanta Hawks just days ago in the trade that sent Dorian Finney-Smith to Atlanta. Now, before even getting an opportunity to settle in with the Hornets, Hield is reportedly on his way to Chicago.
For the Bulls, however, the most interesting part of this trade may be Dillingham’s departure.
Chicago once viewed the young guard as a worthwhile developmental swing when it moved Dosunmu. Trading him before he even reached training camp under the new regime suggests Graham and the Bulls simply did not see Dillingham as part of their long-term plans with guards like Josh Giddey and Tre Jones already on the roster.
Bryson Graham has had a busy summer turning over this roster, and it's exciting that he's willing to jump into a deal like this right before training camp starts.
