Washington Wizards coach Brian Keefe said AJ Dybantsa won't play in Wednesday's season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks, according to Ben Strober of Locked on Wizards.
Dybantsa sustained a mild left ankle sprain in the second quarter on Friday during the team's preseason finale after landing awkwardly on a shot attempt. He was ruled out of returning to the game as a precaution, recording 12 points and two rebounds in 15 minutes.
The No. 1 overall pick took part in some on-court shooting on Monday and was on hand for part of practice on Tuesday. Keefe said Dybantsa is day-to-day with the injury.
AJ Dybantsa is OUT in tomorrow’s season opener, head coach Brian Keefe said.
— Ben Strober (@strobersports) October 20, 2026
Dybantsa finished the preseason averaging 12.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists
and 1.5 steals while shooting 43.9% from the field in four games. He scored 11 or more points in each appearance, including two 13-point performances.
The 19-year-old joins a team that added veterans Anthony Davis and Trae Young last season and, over the offseason, acquired Deandre Ayton and Khris Middleton to pair with a young core. He believes those veterans will help him have a smooth transition this season.
Dybantsa had a productive training camp and is working diligently to be ready to debut. After tipping off the season against the Bucks, the Wizards next host Toronto on Friday.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa to miss season opener with ankle injury
