What happened: Washington coach Brian Keefe ruled AJ Dybantsa out for Wednesday's opener against Milwaukee. The No. 1 overall pick is considered day-to-day with an ankle injury.

Why it matters: Washington opens the 2026-27 season without its centerpiece, delaying Dybantsa's regular-season debut. The absence reshapes the opening-night rotation while the team manages the ankle injury suffered Oct. 17 at New Orleans.

What to watch: Washington will update Dybantsa's status before its second game. His return determines when the opening-night group gets its first full run.