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AJ Dybantsa Asks To Have Wizards’ Toughest Defensive Assignments

Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa has openly embraced the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best players during the 2026-2027 NBA season. According to him, he has asked his coaches to give him the toughest defensive matchups in their games.…

By Rob Andrew Lo · HEAVY

Published: Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 4:26 PM

Key Things to Know

AJ Dybantsa asked Washington Wizards coaches to assign him the opponent's best offensive players each game.
The 2026 top draft pick stated he possesses the size, length, and quickness to defend multiple positions.
Dybantsa cited Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson as his personal benchmark on the defensive end.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Washington Wizards rookie forward AJ Dybantsa has asked his coaching staff to assign him the opposing team's toughest defensive matchups. The 2026 number one overall pick explained that he wants to prove himself as an elite defender in the NBA by competing against the league's top talent.

Dybantsa, who stands 6-foot-10, cited Detroit Pistons wing Ausar Thompson as a benchmark for his defensive aspirations. Through his first seven NBA games, Dybantsa averaged 16.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals, while emphasizing that winning remains his main priority despite Washington's early 4-7 record.

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AJ Dybantsa Asks To Have Wizards’ Toughest Defensive Assignments

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