AJ Dybantsa’s NBA debut was delayed, but it was well worth the wait.

The top pick in the 2026 draft missed the Wizards’ first four games of the season as he recovered from an ankle injury. In what was a loaded draft class where Dybantsa was in the first tier of a coveted group of prospects alongside Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer, Washington committed to the flashy wing out of BYU. And Dybantsa showed why the front office went with him in his first opportunity.

In his debut Wednesday night against the Cavaliers, he dropped 19 points in an efficient 8-for-12 night from the field. He got the start alongside Anthony Davis, Trae Young, Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George as the Wizards got out in front early, but they ultimately got cold in the fourth quarter and lost 121–111.

A disappointing loss, no doubt, but Dybantsa showcased everything that Wizards fans wanted to see. And it’s only the start.…