AJ Dybantsa will quickly make the superstar leap after preseason moments

Tyler Watts argues that Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa is poised to make a rapid leap to superstar status following promising preseason performances. The number one overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft averaged 12.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.5 steals in 21.7 minutes per game during the preseason, showing flashes against top opponents like the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons.

Watts predicts that the former BYU forward will overcome early growing pains to win Rookie of the Year and push Washington toward a playoff spot alongside veterans Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Wizards teammate Young also praised Dybantsa's elite scoring, athleticism, and work ethic in an interview with ESPN, calling him a future face of the league.