Multiple league sources expect the Washington Wizards to select AJ Dybantsa with the first overall choice in the upcoming NBA Draft, according to comments made by ESPN’s Shams Charania during the network’s NBA Draft Preview show.
Charania said rival front offices are “really narrowing on AJ Dybantsa” because the 6-9 wing’s scoring punch and energy appear to mesh with Washington’s core, which is led by point guard Trae Young and center Anthony Davis. Charania added that, at this stage, Dybantsa is viewed as the strongest candidate to open the draft board.
The report echoes a recent story from Grant Afseth of the Dallas Hoops Journal, who wrote that the Wizards currently intend to take the BYU freshman. Dybantsa sits at No. 2 on ESPN’s overall rankings but is projected first in the latest mock draft compiled by ESPN’s Jeremy Woo.
Woo, Charania, and Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman have all heard similar feedback from other teams: Washington’s focus remains on Dybantsa, who paced the NCAA in scoring during his first collegiate season.
Last week, Woo and Charania noted that the Wizards were weighing Dybantsa against Darryn Peterson, a guard from Kansas. On Monday, both prospects told Josh Robbins of The Athletic that the organization has not disclosed its decision. “I’m going to find out when you find out,” Dybantsa said.
Peterson chose not to participate in a workout for the Utah Jazz, owners of the No. 2 pick, but did meet with the franchise. He emphasized that the choice was “just a decision that was made” and that he is prepared to play for any team. Peterson did work out for Washington and described the visit as positive, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and front office.
Marc J. Spears of Andscape reports that Washington is not entertaining trade proposals for the top selection and intends to remain at No. 1.
Source: Hoops Rumors
