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No. 1 Pick Dybantsa Debuts After Ankle Sprain
29 Oct
Summary
- Top prospect AJ Dybantsa makes NBA debut after ankle injury.
- Dybantsa will be on a minutes restriction for his first game.
- Wizards face Cavaliers needing better rebounding effort.
AJ Dybantsa, the top overall selection in the 2026 NBA draft, is scheduled to make his professional debut on October 29, 2026. He will take the court against the Cleveland Cavaliers, having missed the initial four games of the season due to a sprained left ankle sustained on October 16, 2026. Coach Brian Keefe confirmed Dybantsa will be under a minutes restriction for his first game, expressing excitement for the milestone.
The Wizards are aiming to bounce back following a recent loss, where rebounding was a significant issue. They face a challenging matchup against the Cavaliers' formidable big men, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. With player Justin Champagnie sidelined due to a foot fracture, the team plans to rely on its deep roster to compensate for absences and provide opportunities for various players.
Several Wizards players are listed as out due to injuries, including Tre Johnson (achilles soreness), Justin Champagnie (foot fracture), Tristan Vukcevic (hip impingement), and Jamir Watkins (ACL tear). The Cavaliers also have players out, including Khalifa Diop and Ernest Udeh Jr. (G League), and Nae'Quan Tomlin (back). Johnson's absence is due to discomfort felt during pregame warmups.
