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Wizards May Trade No. 1, Target Dybantsa for Playoff Push

5/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Wizards president Michael Winger said the team will consider trading down from the No. 1 pick.
BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 player who averaged 25.5 points per game, is the sportsbook favorite for the top slot.
The Utah Jazz hold the No. 2 pick and are open to Dybantsa trade offers.
Wizards hope Dybantsa could spark a playoff run after injuries to Anthony Davis and Trae Young.

History

Historical Context

The Orlando Magic won the 1992 NBA lottery, used the No. 1 pick on Shaquille O'Neal, and lifted the team from a 21-61 record to 41-41—a 20-win jump that sparked a playoff debut. Now the Washington Wizards, who have held the league’s most first-overall picks, are weighing a trade down from the No. 1 slot, echoing Orlando’s past gamble.

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Story summary

Wizards president Michael Winger said the team will consider trading down from the No. 1 pick.
BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 player who averaged 25.5 points per game, is the sportsbook favorite for the top slot.
The Utah Jazz hold the No. 2 pick and are open to Dybantsa trade offers.
Wizards hope Dybantsa could spark a playoff run after injuries to Anthony Davis and Trae Young.

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