Five Most Anticipated Games for the Washington Wizards in 2026-27

The NBA's full 2026-27 regular season schedule was released last week, August 13th, but this schedule release had a different vibe than previous ones for Washington Wizards fans. 

For the first time in over half a decade, Washington has playoff aspirations as they've built a strong team that looks ready to compete for a championship. Led by former All-NBA talents Trae Young and Anthony Davis, they will help bridge the gap between being a tanking team and a contender. 

With that being said, there are five games that I have circled on my calendar for this upcoming season, so let's dive into what games those might be. 

I have Washington and Philly's first matchup of the season sneaking in at number five, strictly because both teams have added a lot of firepower in the offseason and will be competitive in a loaded Eastern Conference. LeBron James versus Anthony Davis, Tyrese Maxey vs Trae Young, Joel Embiid versus Alex Sarr and more -- there are a lot of exciting matchups between these two teams, and I'm really excited to watch them compete against each other.

The highly anticipated Atlanta return for Trae Young comes in at number four on my list. Like Washington, Atlanta has built a roster ready to compete this upcoming season, then when you throw on Young's return on top of that, you have got yourself an anticipated matchup. It'll be interesting to see which team comes out on top, considering Washington's young core has played well against Atlanta the previous few seasons. '

The debut of Trae Young, Anthony Davis, DeAndre Ayton and number one overall pick AJ Dybantsa will take place on this highly anticipated season opener for Washington. While the game itself isn't expected to be highly competitive, Washington fans will have this date circled on their calendar as it'll signify the start of a new era of Washington Wizards basketball. I can't wait for opening night. 

Trae Young. Madison Square Garden. Defending champs. What more do you need?

This will be the first time Young suits up as a Wizards in MSG, and with a much improved Washington team, this game is expected to be highly competitive and intense. I can't wait to hear the reaction Knicks fans have for Young. 

After meeting in Utah on Feb. 27, this will be the first regular season meeting between number one overall pick AJ Dybantsa and number two overall pick Darryn Peterson in Washington. Dybantsa led Washington to a convincing victory over Utah in Summer League, but will have to repeat that during this highly anticipated regular season matchup.