Locked On Wizards - Daily Podcast On The Washington Wizards

Celebrate the holidays with the Locked On Wizards team as Ben Strober, Greg Finberg, and Abdullah Ayubi bring a festive twist to Wizards basketball! In this special episode, the crew ranks Wizards players on the “naughty or nice” list, hands out Secret Santa skills to those in need, and shares their wish lists and resolutions for the franchise heading into 2026. From evaluating Bilal Coulibaly’s development to dish out stocking stuffers for Justin Champagnie and discussing lottery luck, this episode blends fan passion, critical takes, and some holiday magic for all D.C. basketball fans. Plus, enjoy rapid-fire present grades...

After a strong first half, the Washington Wizards fell apart in the fourth quarter. Hear Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down all the action, as they wonder why Tre Johnson didn't play most of the fourth quarter.

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In this episode of Locked On Wizards, Abdullah Ayubi and Ben Strober break down why it's time for Bub Carrington and Tre Johnson to lead the Wizards' backcourt for the rest of the season. The hosts analyze recent hot streaks, discuss the impact of veteran minutes, and play a game of "Buy or Sell" on players like Bilal Coulibaly and Cam Whitmore. With injury updates and a preview of the upcoming matchup against the Hornets, the episode dives into the team's young core, development priorities, and what lineups make sense moving forward.

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The Washington Wizards go 1-1 on the weekend. AB and Ben break it all down!

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In this episode of Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the Washington Wizards’ recent loss to the San Antonio Spurs and emphasize the critical importance of this year's NBA draft lottery for the team's future. The hosts discuss how lottery luck has propelled teams like the Spurs, Magic, and Pistons towards competitive relevance, while the Wizards continue to struggle with rebuilding and fan frustration. They analyze the development (and struggles) of young Wizards players like Bilal Coulibaly and Bub Carrington, react to fan comments, and reflect on the challenges of watching and covering a rebuilding fr...

NOTES: RECORDED BEFORE ALEX SARR AND BILAL COULIBALY ANNOUNCED OFF INJURY REPORT! Join Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi as they break down Bub Carrington’s recent improvements for the Washington Wizards, discussing why patience in his development is key and examining the impact on the team’s broader youth movement. They dig into stats, fan reactions, and coaching insights, then pivot to discuss Bilal Coulibaly’s progress and concerns. Predictions and strategies for the upcoming game against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs round out the episode—plus off-topic NBA debates and some DC basketball nostalgia. If you’re invested in the Wiz...

In this episode of Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the swirling Darius Garland trade rumors linking him to Washington. They discuss why the rumors don’t add up, what credible sources are actually saying, and why the Wizards should stick to developing their young core. You’ll also get the latest on key injury updates—and how the returns of Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, and Khris Middleton could shake up the rotation. Plus, the guys look ahead to the Wembanyama matchup and reflect on what DC fans should expect as the season continues. Whether you’re...

On this episode of Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober welcomes back former host Ed Oliver, along with co-host Abdullah Ayubi, to dive into the Wizards' latest developments. The crew discusses how young players like Will Riley and Jamir Watkins have stepped up in the wake of key injuries, and what the rotation could look like once Corey Kispert, Alex Sarr, and Bilal Coulibaly return.

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The Washington Wizards put together their best defensive performance of the season, suffocating the Indiana Pacers all afternoon. Second-round pick Jamir Watkins showed some really great flashes, along with Marvin Bagley, who dominated!

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In this episode of Locked On Wizards, host Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi are joined by Greg Finberg from Bullets Forever to break down the recent trade rumors involving Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis. The panel discusses whether the Wizards should pursue Sabonis, the potential fit alongside players like Alex Sarr, and the financial and strategic implications of absorbing Sabonis's massive contract. They also analyze the timing of such a move, the importance of waiting until after the NBA draft, and the overall direction of the Wizards’ rebuild. The hosts wrap up the show with some broader NBA trade ta...

The Washington Wizards blew a 15-point lead in the fourth quarter, falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers, 130-126. An amazing night by Bub Carrington and Jamir Watkins gets overshadowed by CJ McCollum's disaster of a fourth quarter.

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Get ready for an in-depth Washington Wizards discussion on Locked On Wizards with Ben Strober, Abdullah Ayubi, and special guest Lynnell Willingham! This episode delves into Tre Johnson's return from injury and what it means for the team's development heading into the season. The hosts tackle Keyshawn George’s perceived inconsistencies, his fit as a potential lead guard, and why Wizards fans shouldn’t panic. Lynnell Willingham brings contagious energy, sharing his takes on Tre Johnson’s value, Kyshawn’s development, the importance of aggressive defense, and why Alex Sarr’s potential is “limitless.” You’ll also get into honest assessmen...

In this episode of Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi dive deep into AJ Johnson's impressive performance with the Capital City Go-Go and discuss why his NBA minutes for the Wizards might be arriving sooner than expected. The guys break down Wizards’ developmental strategies, analyze the impact of key injuries (including Tre Johnson, Corey Kispert, and Alex Sarr), and debate the team’s offensive woes. They also discuss potential trade deadline fallout, how the rookie class might benefit, and share thoughts on DC’s future—all before playing a revealing game of “Buy or Sell” about wins, breakout per...

On today’s Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi dive deep into the swirling rumors about Cam Whitmore’s practice habits and what they really mean for his future with the Washington Wizards. The hosts unpack new reporting, respond to the online reaction, and share insights about the team’s long-term vision. Drawing from expert sources and their own coverage, they discuss why Whitmore’s temporary benching is more about culture and accountability than any final verdict on his talent. Plus, they touch on the importance of professionalism, how young players develop, and what to expect from Whitmore...

In this episode of Locked on Wizards, hosts Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi are joined by Washington Post Wizards beat reporter Varun Shankar to break down the team's latest developments. The trio dives deep into Cam Whitmore’s recent benching by head coach Brian Keefe—unpacking the reasoning behind it, the standards being set for young players, and the importance of process over results for a rebuilding team. They also analyze CJ McCollum’s role and playing time, discuss trade value scenarios for Wizards veterans as the deadline approaches, and give updates on the team’s injury situation, including Alex Sar...

Abdullah Ayubi and Ben Strober react to the Wizards' loss against the Atlanta Hawks 131-116. There was a questionable decision to pull out Will Riley during a career night. AB and Ben break it all down.

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The Washington Wizards suffered a crushing 45-point defeat at home to a depleted Boston Celtics squad. In this episode, Ben Strober dives deep into the aftermath, breaking down Brian Keefe's brutally honest postgame press conference, and asking the question every fan is wondering: Where has the step forward actually been this season?

We analyze the lack of effort, questionable rotations, and concerns about developing young talent like Bub Carrington and Will Riley. Is the current rebuild stalling the growth of the Wizards’ promising core? Have veterans like C.J. McCollum and Chris Middleton really helped the team, or...

The Wizards were embarrassed at home by the Boston Celtics, who did whatever they wanted all night. The defense continues to be on pace for the worst in NBA history. Is this truly the worst defense ever? We break it all down.

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Join Abdullah Ayubi and Ben Strober on Locked On Wizards as they dive into the Washington Wizards’ lack of offensive identity twenty games into the NBA season. The hosts discuss why ball movement is essential for the team’s development, examine how the absence of a true point guard impacts offensive fluidity, and analyze the progress of young players like Kyshawn George, Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, and Bub Carrington. Get the latest lottery updates and hear their thoughts on the competition for top draft picks and what the future could hold for DC’s young core. Whether you’re hoping f...

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The Washington Wizards have win number 3 behind a massive comeback effort against the Milwaukee Bucks. React with Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi postgame.

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Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi dive into rumors about LaMelo Ball’s future with the Charlotte Hornets and debate whether the Washington Wizards should pursue a trade for the 24-year-old star guard. They break down the pros and cons of making a move, discuss LaMelo’s fit in D.C., injury concerns, and what the potential deal could mean for the Wizards’ rebuild and future assets. Plus, they preview the upcoming Wizards vs. Bucks game and talk about key matchups and expectations.

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The Washington Wizards could not win multiple games in a row for the first time since March 2025. They were handled by the two-win Pacers, who exposed the Wizards' poor defense all night, with little adjustment.

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The Washington Wizards’ tough season just got tougher. Tre Johnson, the #6 overall rookie pick, is out for at least a couple of weeks with a left hip flexor strain—adding to the pain of a 14-game losing streak. In this episode, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down what Tre Johnson’s injury means for the Wizards’ season, who could step up in his absence, and why the rotation might look very different going forward. Plus, we discuss team injury management, potential trade rumors, and preview the Wizards’ next matchups. Can the Wizards finally end their losing streak, or are they h...

CRISIS Mode for the Washington Wizards! After 14 consecutive losses, all eyes are on rising star Cam Whitmore and his limited playing time. Should Cam Whitmore become the centerpiece of the Wizards' rebuild? In this episode, we break down Cam Whitmore’s explosive stats, discuss why he's being benched during key moments, and debate if the coaching staff is holding him back. Hear insightful analysis on how more minutes for Cam Whitmore could help turn the Wizards’ season around. Whether you’re a D.C. hoops diehard or an NBA fan tracking young talent, tune in to Locked On Wizards for ex...

The Washington Wizards drop a heartbreaker and lose their 14th game in a row. Hear Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi react live.

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On a night where the Washington Wizards were missing their starting and backup center, they were simply overmatched on the glass, as the team dropped their 13th in a row. The game was relatively competitive for the first half, but the momentum shifted in the second half. Hear Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi react postgame.

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The Washington Wizards were down big-time after a disastrous second quarter. Still, a great second half headlined by the Wizards' young wings, Bilal Coulibaly, Cam Whitmore, and Kyshawn George, nearly led a massive comeback. Are the wing players the difference for this team?

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi react following the Wizards' 12th-straight loss.

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Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down Dawkins' revealing radio interview, where he acknowledged defensive inconsistencies and hinted at a shrinking rotation to improve team chemistry. The discussion examines critical roster decisions, including Will Riley's G League development as a potential point forward, the team's glaring playmaking deficiency at point guard, and whether players like A.J. Johnson should be getting G League reps instead of sitting on the bench. The hosts preview a challenging matchup against Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves, analyzing how Alex Sarr matches up against four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert while...

Washington Wizards hold players-only meeting after 11th straight loss. Are deeper organizational problems surfacing? The analysis breaks down Washington's historically catastrophic start—a minus-217 point differential, the worst defense in the league, and zero home wins since April. Greg Finberg from Bullets Forever joins to examine whether the coaching staff has lost control, why Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George are developing while Bub Carrington regresses, and if the rebuild strategy is building terrible habits instead of future success. The discussion covers potential coaching replacements like Mike Malone and Sam Cassell, the point guard void crippling offensive creativity, and how co...

The Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets both entered the game an NBA-worst 1-11. With that being said, the Nets dominated the majority of the game. It was not a good look for Washington, who struggled mightily on defense again.

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Ben Strober breaks down Will Riley's impressive performance with the Wizards' G League affiliate, analyzing why the 21st overall pick needed developmental reps despite being "too good" for that level. The discussion covers Riley's limited NBA opportunities under Brian Keefe, his offensive toolkit from his Illinois days, and an insider perspective on why Riley could become a special player. Key topics include the Wizards' player development philosophy under Will Dawkins and Michael Winger, Riley's potential as a point-forward alongside Keyshawn George, and how post-trade deadline opportunities could accelerate his NBA role.

Can Riley's playmaking ability solve Washington's...

The Wizards' losing streak isn't failure—it's strategic asset gathering. Danny Rouhier from the Grant and Danny Show joins to explain why developing Alex Sarr into a franchise cornerstone matters more than chasing mediocrity. The conversation tackles Brian Keefe's coaching evaluation through player development metrics rather than wins, Tre Johnson's underutilized shooting ability, and why the team needs to throw young players into end-game situations. The 2025 draft class takes center stage with passionate debate over AJ Dybantsa versus Darren Peterson, plus insights on why Washington needs a homegrown superstar to finally join the NBA's elite destination cities. Capital City Go...

The Washington Wizards lost their 10th-straight game on Wednesday, falling to the Houston Rockets. The effort was poor early on, which prompted frustrations from Wizards HC Brian Keefe to begin the second half. The effort was better in the second half. Hear Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break it all down.

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Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down Sarr's defensive dominance—ranking second in the NBA with 2.5 blocks per game behind only Victor Wembanyama—and his elite switch defense capabilities that rank among the league's best. The hosts analyze his offensive evolution, including doubled paint scoring, top-three elbow production, and league-leading screen assists. Per-100-possession statistics reveal shocking jumps: field goal percentage from 39% to 52%, points per game up nearly 8, and paint scoring doubled from last season.

The discussion includes comparisons to Evan Mobley's All-Star trajectory, Most Improved Player candidacy, and a preview of the upcoming matchup against the Hous...

Unreal game in Detroit. The Wizards are stunned in overtime by the Pistons after Detroit's game-tying buzzer beater in regulation. Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi react, weighing in on the Wizards putting up one of the biggest fights they've had in years.

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Washington Wizards head coach Brian Keefe's shocking late-game blunder against Dallas exposes deeper problems plaguing the franchise's eight-game losing streak. With the worst defense in the league, allowing 46 field goals per game, the Wizards face mounting questions about coaching competence and player development. Greg Finberg from Bullets Forever breaks down Keefe's critical clock management error, plus the rotation chaos affecting Malachi Branham, Cam Whitmore, and struggling point guard Bub Carrington. The conversation explores Alex Sarr's breakout performance as the team's lone bright spot, Kyshawn George's foul trouble concerns, and whether non-competitive fourth quarters are sabotaging the rebuild trajectory. Finberg...

Abdullah Ayubi breaks down the Wizards' crushing defeat against the Dallas Mavericks 111-105. 8th loss in a row for the Wiz, but Cam Whitmore looked great!

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