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Trae Young must embrace being off-ball threat for AJ Dybantsa to reach his ceiling

The Washington Wizards made Trae Young a long-term piece, so he needs to give up the ball to let AJ Dybantsa blossom.

Published: Wednesday, 4 November 2026 at 11:00 AM
Trae Young must embrace being off-ball threat for AJ Dybantsa to reach his ceiling
Key Things to Know
  • Tyler Watts argues Trae Young must play off the ball to allow rookie AJ Dybantsa to reach his potential.
  • Washington signed Young to a $212.8 million contract extension during the offseason.
  • Young is shooting just 27.1 percent from 3-point range through the team's first seven games.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Tyler Watts argues that Washington Wizards guard Trae Young must adapt his game to become an off-ball threat to maximize rookie AJ Dybantsa. Watts writes that while Washington signed Young to a $212.8 million deal, Dybantsa needs significant on-ball reps to reach his ceiling as a superstar. The article highlights that Young is currently shooting 27.1 percent on 3-pointers through seven games, largely due to attempting mostly difficult off-the-dribble shots rather than catch-and-shoot opportunities.

Watts suggests that developing a strong two-man game and utilizing Young as a floor spacer off Dybantsa's downhill drives will help both players thrive. The 19-year-old rookie, drafted first overall after leading the NCAA in scoring, has impressed defensively and offensively after missing four games with an ankle injury. Watts concludes that Young must be willing to share primary ball-handling duties if the Wizards want to become championship contenders.

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