Wizards' Top Draft Pick Dybantsa Suffers Ankle Injury in Preseason Finale

Washington Wizards' highly anticipated No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, AJ Dybantsa, sustained a left ankle sprain during the team's preseason finale against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday. The injury occurred in the second quarter when Dybantsa landed awkwardly after attempting a mid-range jump shot.

Dybantsa was helped off the court by teammates and did not return to the game. He finished with 12 points, three rebounds, and one block in 15 minutes of play. While he was able to walk off the court under his own power, his status for the Wizards' regular season opener on Wednesday is now uncertain.

"We’ll look at it more when we get more information," Wizards coach Brian Keefe told reporters following the game. Social media footage showed Dybantsa heading to the locker room, appearing to reassure observers that he was "good."

Dybantsa has averaged 12 points, four rebounds, and one assist on 43% shooting from the field across his four preseason appearances. The injury is a setback for fans eager to see the rookie, whom the team reportedly tanked the previous season to acquire. The Wizards have added veteran talent this offseason, including extending Trae Young to a four-year, $212 million deal, and feature a roster that includes Anthony Davis, Khris Middleton, and Deandre Ayton.

During media day, Dybantsa expressed confidence in the team's veteran presence, noting that he wouldn't have to shoulder an immediate heavy load. He stated, "I have All-Stars and Hall of Famers on my team that I can really get some knowledge from... so I don’t have to come in and carry this huge load. I think I can just kind of bond with these guys, learn it slowly and learn how to play the right way instead of just getting put into a situation where I have a lot on my back."

The team will continue to monitor Dybantsa's condition as they prepare to face the Bucks in their regular season opener.