Why Isn’t Wizards’ AJ Dybantsa Playing Today? When Will He Make NBA Debut?

Washington Wizards rookie AJ Dybantsa will miss his third straight game to open the season after being ruled out against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday. The No. 1 overall pick continues to recover from a mild left ankle sprain suffered during Washington's preseason finale on Oct. 16 against the New Orleans Pelicans. Multiple reports indicate that Monday's game against the Charlotte Hornets is his next target to make his official NBA debut.

Head coach Brian Keefe has labeled Dybantsa's recovery as day-to-day, emphasizing that the team will not rush the 19-year-old wing back onto the floor. Dybantsa avoided surgery and has participated in shooting drills following the injury. The Wizards hold a 1-1 record in his absence, following a 128-116 opening win over the Milwaukee Bucks and a 112-102 loss to the Toronto Raptors.