The Wizards will open without AJ Dybantsa in the rotation Wednesday night, with the No. 1 pick ruled out for the season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks after hurting his ankle in Friday’s preseason finale.
Coach Brian Keefe described the injury as day-to-day and indicated he does not expect Dybantsa to be sidelined for long. Washington will have to sort out its opening-night minutes without the rookie, who showed flashes at both ends during the preseason.
From the locker room
Dybantsa appeared in four preseason games and posted averages of 12.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
His strongest showing came against Detroit, when he finished with 14 points and seven rebounds. That outing highlighted the two-way versatility Washington saw from the rookie during camp and exhibition play.
The ankle issue came in the Wizards’ final preseason game Friday. Keefe’s day-to-day designation leaves open the possibility that Dybantsa’s absence will be limited beyond opening night.
Next tip
Washington begins the regular season against Milwaukee on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET.
