Wizards face major injury scare as No. 1 Pick AJ Dybantsa's NBA debut hangs in the balance originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Washington Wizards could begin the 2026-27 NBA season without their most anticipated rookie after No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa suffered an ankle injury during Friday's preseason finale against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Dybantsa injured his left ankle during the second quarter after landing awkwardly following a midrange jump shot. The 19-year-old forward fell to the court before limping toward the locker room.
Washington ultimately lost 107-106, but the bigger concern was the health of its prized rookie.
According to ESPN, Wizards head coach Brian Keefe described the injury as a mild ankle sprain and explained that removing Dybantsa from the contest was precautionary.
"We'll look at it more when we get more information," Keefe said.
Before exiting, Dybantsa recorded 12 points, two rebounds and one block in 15 minutes. He connected on four of eight field-goal attempts, including one three-pointer.
The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Washington, which opens its regular season Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Wizards Receive Encouraging Update on Dybantsa
Despite initial concerns, there is reason for optimism surrounding the rookie's recovery.
According to RotoWire, Keefe said Sunday that Dybantsa is considered day-to-day with the ankle sprain. However, his availability for Wednesday's opener remains uncertain.
The former BYU standout enters the NBA with enormous expectations after leading the nation in scoring during his lone collegiate season, averaging 25.5 points per game.
Washington selected Dybantsa first overall in June, hoping his offensive versatility and athleticism would help transform the franchise.
Throughout four preseason appearances, he demonstrated flashes of that potential, averaging approximately 12.8 points while adjusting to NBA competition.
For the Wizards, protecting their franchise cornerstone should outweigh the excitement surrounding his regular-season debut.
Although missing opening night would disappoint fans, rushing Dybantsa back could create unnecessary complications.
Washington has invested too much in its young star to jeopardize his long-term development over one game.
The Wizards will continue evaluating his recovery as Wednesday approaches, with the rookie's health remaining their biggest priority.