Wizards news: Why Will Dawkins expects big strides after adding AJ Dybantsa appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Washington Wizards are optimistic for the 2026-27 season after using the No. 1 overall pick on AJ Dybantsa. With more talent on this year’s roster, general manager Will Dawkins is expecting big things from the team, especially from Dybantsa.
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While talking with media members on Friday, Dawkins claimed that he expects the 19-year-old forward to improve his game as the season progresses. He believes Dybantsa can improve nearly every aspect of his game, offensively, defensively, and as a teammate.
“I think we’ll see him make big strides throughout the season, just like, offensively, figuring out where he can go, what his spots are, how to play with other players, and then play with the ball,” Dawkins said about Dybantsa. “He’s a winning basketball player who makes winning decisions, and I think the biggest growth for him will be defensively…
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“He’ll be a different level defender at the end of the year than he will be at the beginning of the year. I can sit here all day and talk about AJ’s potential and his future, and what he’s going to look like when he’s into his prime,” Dawkins continued. “So, I would just say enjoy the rookie part of him as well, because that’s where you’ll see a lot of learning and development.”
AJ Dybantsa played 35 games playing for the BYU Cougars for one year before entering the draft. He was one of the most consistent players in the nation, averaging 25.5 points (led the nation), 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 51.0% from the floor and 33.1% from beyond the three-point line.
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His play not only led him to becoming the No.1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, but Dybantsa was also a unanimous First-Team All-American as well. He’ll have a chance to carry on that level of play at the pro level next season.
