AJ Dybantsa Sets the Tone on Defense in Wizards’ Preseason Opener

The Washington Wizards defeated the reigning NBA champion New York Knicks 111-109 in their preseason opener. Several players stood out, particularly No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa, who gave fans plenty to be excited about in his first taste of NBA action.

The rookie forward finished with 11 points, two assists, and four steals. Head coach Brian Keefe was particularly impressed with Dybantsa’s defensive effort and the impact he made on that end of the floor.

“The biggest thing is he had four steals. His effort on the defensive end, cutting people off, playing in the passing lane,” Keefe said after the game.

“You could feel his presence on the court, his ability to get into bodies, his ability to guard one on one.”

Having followed the Wizards for a long time, I don’t think I've seen a player push the pace quite like Dybantsa does. Whenever the ball gets into his hands, he immediately looks to get the offense moving and push the ball down the court.

Dybantsa scored his first two points on a driving layup. Since first taking the court during Summer League, he has shown an ability to attack the paint and find opportunities to score around the basket. His aggressiveness when driving to the basket is one of the most encouraging parts of his offensive game, especially for a young player adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NBA.

His three-point shooting, however, remains an area for improvement. Dybantsa went 0-for-3 from beyond the arc against the Knicks, continuing a trend from Summer League, where he shot 1-for-11 from three-point range.

I understand that the NBA has transformed into a three-point shooting league. However, I would like to see him continue to lean into what he already does well. His ability to attack the basket, finish in the paint, and use his speed to create opportunities should remain a priority rather than forcing perimeter shots that aren't falling yet.

That is about the only major critique I have of Dybantsa’s performance. Outside of his shooting struggles, the rookie looked sharp, particularly on the defensive end. His four steals demonstrated the activity and instincts he can bring to Washington, and his willingness to compete on every possession stood out.

It is also important to remember that this is only the beginning of his NBA career. There will be adjustments and growing pains along the way, but his first performance offered plenty of reasons for optimism. If he continues to bring that defensive intensity and aggressive approach to the basket, his future in Washington will be very bright.

The Wizards will look to build on its preseason-opening performance when it returns home to face the Detroit Pistons on Saturday, October 10. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.