Washington Wizards' Biggest Offseason Needs Ahead of 2026 NBA Draft

For the Washington Wizards, it can be fun to think about what trade offers are coming their way for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. To move back a spot, though, via a deal with the Utah Jazz, there'd better be a hefty chest of draft picks in return.

And if not, AJ Dybantsa needs to be the pick.

The 6'9" wing is the ideal superstar to build around, as Washington can plug him in between Trae Young and Anthony Davis, competing for a spot in the East playoffs immediately.

This is the player the Wizards have long coveted to build around. Listening to offers is fine, but ultimately, Washington should stay and make this selection.

2025-26 Record: 17-65

Draft Picks: 1, 51, 60

A Face of the Franchise

The Washington Wizards added a pair of very famous players this past season when they traded for Trae and AD. But neither figure to be the longterm face of the franchise.

That distinction could very well go to whoever they take with the first overall pick. And right now, it certainly looks like that'll be Dybantsa.

As a wing with Tracy McGrady-like potential, Dybantsa is a near-ideal fit between Young and Davis. His game should be additive around both veterans. And they'll help him, too.

Defense

They may have a decent amount of it with Davis, Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly, but any team being run by Young needs more than a decent amount of defense.

Having him at the 1 makes plus-defense at just about every other spot critical.

Unless the Wizards are certain some of their up-and-comers are ready to provide that, they should be looking for it in free agency.

Shooting

One of the best ways to take advantage of Young's playmaking is by surrounding him with three-point shooters.

Washington was surprisingly in the middle of the pack in both threes per game and three-point percentage, but they don't have many high-end individual shooters who can bend defenses.

Someone who constantly moves off the ball and is dangerous on just about any catch can open up an awful lot for everyone else on the floor.