# Wizards feel a little 'slept on' ahead of pivotal season

> Wizards' young star AJ Dybantsa and veteran Trae Young aim to shock NBA with fresh team dynamics.
- Title: Wizards feel a little 'slept on' ahead of pivotal season
- Summary: Wizards' young star AJ Dybantsa and veteran Trae Young aim to shock NBA with fresh team dynamics. Washington Wizards enter 2026-27 NBA season with high…
- Keywords: wizards, aj dybantsa, trae young, nba, 2026-27 season, anterior davis, nba draft, defensive team, news, local, feel, little
- Source: The Banner — https://thebanner.com/sports/wizards-nba/washington-wizards-aj-dybantsa-trae-young-ZQPBAJQHWNHAZDV2IFYKOI7VCU
- Author: Kyle Williams
- Published: 2026-09-28T23:48:00.057+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: wizards, aj dybantsa, trae young, nba, 2026-27 season, anterior davis, nba draft, defensive team, news, local
## AJ Dybantsa's confidence
19-year-old aj dybantsa feels no pressure entering rookie season despite being the nba's top pick.

> none
## Team's young talent
wizards have versatile swingman kyshawn george and sharpshooting guard tre johnson among young players.
## Anthony Davis' perspective
anthony davis says wizards are a little slept on but must focus on winning games immediately.

> i think we are a little slept on, which is fine
## Trae Young's role
trae young re-signed for four years after injuries but needs to find balance with young talent.
## Offensive challenges
dybantsa averages 25.5 points per game at byu while young needs to share offensive duties.

> there's not very many of us
## Defensive focus
wizards aim to be top defensive team with anthony davis and alex sarr as key rim protectors.

> we're going to be a top defensive team
## First practice day
wizards begin practice on tuesday after winning just 15 games last season.
## Season expectations
general manager will dawkins calls this season a 'season of growth' for the wizards.

> season of growth
## Key takeaway

Washington Wizards enter 2026-27 NBA season with high expectations after acquiring young talent and two established stars.