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NBA·RECAP·October 28, 2026 07:21 PM ET

No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa scores first NBA basket in debut against Cavaliers

Left ankle sprain sidelined him for the Oct. 20 opener.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 52m1 min read
Post on X
AJ DYBANTSA'S FIRST BUCKET IN HIS NBA DEBUT! Watch the #1 pick duel the Cavs on NBA League Pass 🍿 https://t.co/pop9hwu Via @NBA on X

What happened: Cleared to the active lineup for Wednesday's 7 p.m. ET tipoff, AJ Dybantsa converted his first regular-season field goal against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The rookie also drew an early foul to earn his initial trip to the free-throw line.

Why it matters: Selected at the top of the June 24 draft, the prized prospect steps into the rotation after missing the opening week of the 2026-27 schedule. Getting him on the floor provides immediate offensive creation as the club integrates its franchise cornerstone against Eastern Conference competition.

By the numbers: The Cleveland Cavaliers entered Wednesday's contest at 2-1 following a 127-125 victory on Oct. 26. Dybantsa's side arrived with a 2-2 mark after dropping a 103-110 decision on the road Monday.

What to watch: Dybantsa's playing-time workload will be tracked closely through the remainder of his first active appearance back from the ankle injury. The Cleveland Cavaliers continue their road trip Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on NBA TV.

Sources

  • @NBA 

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