Wizards' AJ Dybantsa set to make NBA debut on Wednesday vs. Cavaliers

Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa will make his long-awaited NBA regular-season debut Wednesday on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team announced.

Dybantsa, the No. 1 pick in June’s NBA Draft, did not play in Washington’s first four games after suffering an ankle injury in the team’s preseason finale on Oct. 16. He was listed as questionable heading into the game against the Cavaliers, but was upgraded to available on Wednesday morning.

During that preseason game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Dybantsa left the game early after landing awkwardly on his left ankle following a shot. He limped to the locker room for further evaluation and did not return.

No more waiting ⌛️ @AJ_Dybantsapic.twitter.com/XCZ65MiPho

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— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) October 28, 2026

Before the injury, Dybantsa averaged 13 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2 steals in three preseason games.

The Wizards have started the season 2-2, winning against the Milwaukee Bucks in their season opener as well as against the Chicago Bulls. They’ve dropped games against the Toronto Raptors and Charlotte Hornets.

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p style=”text-align:left”>Barring injury, Dybantsa will make his home debut on Friday against the Hornets.