The Washington Wizards will have to wait a little longer to see their prized rookie make his NBA debut. AJ Dybantsa has been ruled out of Friday's matchup against the Toronto Raptors as he continues recovering from a sprained ankle, Wizards head coach Brian Keefe confirmed Thursday. The latest setback means the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft will miss his second consecutive regular-season game after sitting out Washington's season-opening victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday.
According to Josh Robbins of The Athletic, Keefe confirmed that Dybantsa will not be available when Washington hosts Toronto at Capital One Arena. The 19-year-old forward suffered the injury during the Wizards' preseason finale against the New Orleans Pelicans on Oct. 16. Dybantsa landed awkwardly after attempting a jump shot in the second quarter and was unable to return.
Before leaving the game, he recorded 12 points, two rebounds and one block in just 15 minutes. Washington initially described the injury as a mild ankle sprain, with Keefe previously indicating that the rookie was considered day-to-day. However, the injury has now prevented Dybantsa from participating in the first two games of his NBA career.
The former BYU standout entered the league with enormous expectations after an impressive college season in which he averaged 25.5 points per game and led the nation in scoring. Washington selected Dybantsa with the first overall pick, hoping he could become a cornerstone of the franchise alongside its developing young talent. The Wizards also have established veterans Anthony Davis and Trae Young, giving Dybantsa an opportunity to develop without immediately carrying the team's offensive responsibilities.
Despite the rookie's absence, Washington opened its season with an impressive 128-116 victory over Milwaukee. Davis led the way with 34 points and 12 rebounds, providing an encouraging start to a season filled with optimism surrounding the franchise. While the Wizards have enough talent to remain competitive without Dybantsa, his absence delays an important part of the team's long-term development.
Washington will visit the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, giving the rookie another potential opportunity to make his debut. For now, the Wizards will continue waiting for their top draft pick to return to full strength.
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