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East Notes: Wizards, AJ Dybantsa, Magic, Nikola Vucevic, Heat

Being the No. 1 overall pick usually comes with a fairly simple assignment: Please save us. AJ Dybantsa doesn’t quite see it that way in Washington. The Wizards haven’t won more than 18 games in any of the past three…

Published: Tuesday, 29 September 2026 at 7:53 PM
East Notes: Wizards, AJ Dybantsa, Magic, Nikola Vucevic, Heat
Key Things to Know
  • Eastern Conference notes highlight season preparations for the Washington Wizards, Orlando Magic, and Miami Heat.
  • Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa said playing alongside seasoned veterans relieves the pressure of being a top pick.
  • Nikola Vucevic is prepared to embrace a reduced playing role during his second stint with Orlando.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Eastern Conference teams are preparing for the upcoming season with key roster updates across Washington, Orlando, and Miami. Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa stated that he feels minimal pressure as a No. 1 overall pick because he is surrounded by experienced veterans such as Anthony Davis, Trae Young, Khris Middleton, and Deandre Ayton.

Elsewhere in the conference, 35-year-old center Nikola Vucevic acknowledged that he is prepared to embrace a reduced role during his second stint with the Orlando Magic, who are in no rush to fill their 15th roster spot. Meanwhile, Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra expressed confidence in Nikola Jovic, emphasizing improved body language and mindset as the forward begins his four-year, $62.4 million extension.

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