Wizards and AJ Dybantsa Could Have a Breakout Year

The Washington Wizards have struggled recently, but ESPN's latest rankings indicate a potential turnaround on the horizon. In their assessment of which teams could experience a major leap in 2026, ESPN's panel of experts awarded the Wizards 20 points, placing them in third position. Only the Indiana Pacers and Utah Jazz garnered more points, with each team receiving 46 points.

For the Wizards, recent events have provided a glimmer of hope. Last season, they finished near the bottom of the standings, handing them the number one pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. They chose AJ Dybantsa with that selection, providing the franchise with a promising young player to build around. The Wizards have also bolstered their roster with proven talent.

Through trade, they acquired Trae Young and Anthony Davis, two high-caliber starters who, despite sitting out most or all of the 2025-26 season, have added significant depth to the team. Dybantsa's acquisition after a disappointing season gives the Wizards a chance to alter the course of their franchise. While much still needs to be accomplished, ESPN's ranking places the Wizards ahead of several other teams expected to be in the mix for a breakout season.

The third-place finish isn't a guarantee, but it's promising that ESPN's experts view Washington as one of the teams capable of making a significant jump. The Wizards now have the number one draft pick, the highly anticipated young player Dybantsa, and the proven stars Young and Davis. After a tough stretch at the bottom of the standings, Washington now has a reason to be excited: a chance to make a once-dismal season worthwhile.