The Washington Wizards will be without No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa for their 2026-27 NBA season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks as he continues recovering from an ankle injury.
The Washington Wizards will have to wait a little longer to see their top draft pick make his regular-season debut.
Head coach Brian Keefe announced Tuesday that Dybantsa will miss Wednesday’s season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks because of an ankle injury. The 19-year-old forward is considered day-to-day, according to reports.
How Did AJ Dybantsa Get Injured?
Dybantsa sustained a mild left ankle sprain during Washington’s preseason finale against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, October 16.
The rookie landed awkwardly after a shot attempt and left the game after recording 12 points and two rebounds in 15 minutes. He did not return, with the team taking a cautious approach to the injury.
Dybantsa has since participated in on-court shooting drills, offering an encouraging sign as he works toward his NBA debut. However, the Wizards will not rush him back for the season opener.
When Could AJ Dybantsa Make His NBA Debut?
Dybantsa’s next opportunity to play comes Friday, October 23, when the Wizards host the Toronto Raptors. His availability for that game remains uncertain as he continues to be evaluated day-to-day.
Washington selected Dybantsa No. 1 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft after his standout freshman season at BYU. He led the nation in scoring, averaging 25.5 points per game during the 2025-26 college season.
His combination of size, scoring ability and athleticism has made him one of the most anticipated rookies entering the new NBA season.
What This Means for the Wizards
Dybantsa’s absence delays the start of a highly anticipated new chapter for Washington. The franchise will begin its season against Milwaukee on Wednesday, October 21, without its prized rookie.
The immediate priority is getting Dybantsa healthy enough to return without aggravating the injury. Until then, Wizards fans will have to wait for their first regular-season look at the No. 1 pick.
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