The Washington Wizards made a statement against the Milwaukee Bucks as they went on to win 128-116 on opening night. 

However, Washington would see themselves trailing for a majority of tonight's contest, but were saved by the ten-time NBA All-Star, Anthony Davis. Davis made his longly awaited D.C. debut, and the big mans impact was immediate. 

Davis not only led his new team to their first win of the season, but set a Washington Wizards franchise record on his way. 

It's quite evident that Washington has a special player on their hands, but what does this mean for them going forward? 

In previous years, Washington didn't have a primary guy they could run the offense around when things got rough; but they now have Anthony Davis. 

The five-time All-NBA selection went to work early, scoring 10 points and snagging six rebounds in the first quarter.

Davis would continue to anchor the defense and score on offense in all of his 34 minutes played tonight, finishing the game with 34 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block on 11-20 FG. 

Davis not only scored 34 points, but became the only player in franchise history to record a 30-point double-double in their team debut. 

The last time Washington had a legitimate number one player was almost a decade ago in John Wall, and that team competed with anyone. Fast forward nine seasons and Anthony Davis is still dropping 30-point double-doubles. 

Davis' rim protection, rebounding and half-court scoring helped propel Washington to an opening night victory -- something they haven't done since 2022 against the Indiana Pacers.

Only time will tell how good trading for Davis was, as we all know his long lasting injury history and concerns. However, as of right now, Davis looks like an MVP caliber player who is destined to turn Washington from pretenders into contenders. 

There was a lot of hype heading into the season of who the franchise player for Washington is. Between Davis, Trae Young, AJ Dybantsa and others, Washington has numerous All-Star caliber players that they could compete with.

However, after watching what Washington was able to accomplish on opening night, it's quite evident that this team is led by Davis. 

This isn't Davis' first rodeo as he led the New Orleans Pelicans franchise to multiple playoff births, and co-led the Los Angeles Lakers to win an NBA Championship. 

Washington's success during the 2026-27 season will have a lot to do with Davis and if he can stay healthy and continue to perform the way we know he can.

Washington has been a bottom of the barrel team the past few seasons when it comes to both offensive and defensive rebounding. 

Former No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr is a fine, but not great rebounder. However, after the addition of Davis and his 12 rebounds, you can tell Washington will be more active on the glass this season.

Washington out rebounded a tall and physical Milwaukee side 44-to-41 on October 21st, furthermore displaying their new and improved rebounding. Additionally, adding De'Andre Ayton as a backup big helps. 

Davis' Washington debut was everything he could've asked for and more, as he received multiple 'MVP' chants throughout the night. 

Washington starts off 1-0 and climbs to above .500 for the first time since November 28th, 2022, in large part to Davis' elite night. 

The only thing he can do now is continue to play at a high to elite level, and take care of his body as he is an instrumental asset to Washington's hopeful success this season.