Locked On Wizards - Daily Podcast On The Washington Wizards

rae Young is already making a MASSIVE impact on the Washington Wizards! Just three games into the season, Young leads the NBA in total assists and has recorded an incredible 4.86 assist-to-turnover ratio. Is he already proving to be one of the most valuable playmakers in basketball?

On today's Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down Trae Young's first three regular-season games, compare his production to other NBA stars, and explain how he's transforming Washington's offense.

Plus, are the Wizards asking Kyshawn George to do TOO MUCH? After struggling with turnovers against Toronto...

The Washington Wizards LOCKED IN during the second half to take down the Chicago Bulls! After a challenging first half, Washington flipped the switch, delivering a much-needed defensive response and getting HUGE contributions from Kyshawn George and Justin Champagnie to secure the victory! On today's Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down how Washington turned things around after halftime, the adjustments that changed the game, and why this win provides another encouraging sign for the new-look Wizards. Kyshawn George continues to IMPRESS! The young wing is making his presence felt on both ends of the floor...

The Wizards fell to the Raptors in game 2 of the season, as the Raptors exposed their biggest flaw. It's the lack of a backup point guard. Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the loss and break down what the Wizards need to do against the Chicago Bulls tomorrow.

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The Washington Wizards are 1-0, and we learned A LOT from their opening-night victory over the Milwaukee Bucks! From Kyshawn George's improved athleticism to Tre Johnson's emerging shot creation and Anthony Davis' dominant performance, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about this new-look Wizards team! On today's Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down THREE major takeaways from Washington's season-opening win. Kyshawn George looks like a completely different athlete! His improved explosiveness could unlock another level of offensive production and raise his ceiling as a two-way player. Tre Johnson might be more than just...

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The Washington Wizards are entering their MOST ANTICIPATED season in YEARS! Although No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa will miss opening night against the Milwaukee Bucks with an ankle injury, the excitement surrounding Washington's new era remains as strong as ever!

On today's Locked On Wizards, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi are joined by special guest Joe House of The Ringer to discuss why this season feels different for longtime Wizards fans.

After three consecutive seasons with fewer than 20 wins, Washington enters the 2026-27 campaign with legitimate expectations, established stars in Trae Young and Anthony Davis...

The Washington Wizards are ONE DAY AWAY from opening the 2026-27 NBA season against the Milwaukee Bucks! Can Washington take advantage of its season opener and make an early statement?

On today's Locked On Wizards, we're joined by Locked On Bucks host Camille Davis for a special crossover episode previewing Wednesday night's matchup!

We break down Milwaukee's biggest strengths and weaknesses, the Bucks' new identity under head coach Taylor Jenkins, and how the franchise is preparing for life after Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Plus, what challenges will the Bucks present for Trae Young, Anthony Davis...

Who are the BEST and WORST teams in the NBA heading into the 2026-27 season? With opening night just around the corner, Locked On NBA Daily reveals its official 30-team NBA Power Rankings, organized into S-through-F tiers! Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore and Haize unveil rankings voted on by hosts from all 30 Locked On NBA team podcasts, debating the biggest surprises, overrated contenders and underrated playoff hopefuls. The Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio Spurs and defending champion New York Knicks headline the exclusive S Tier. But do Victor Wembanyama's Spurs belong alongside the NBA's elite? Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets, Los...

On today's Locked On Wizards, we break down the Wizards' first 10 games and why their early schedule could provide an opportunity to build momentum. After finishing the preseason 2-2, Washington has plenty of reasons for optimism, but Trae Young's turnovers and the team's inconsistent half-court offense remain major concerns.

Plus, NBA scouts are reportedly HIGH on Kyshawn George! After averaging 15.3 points per game while shooting 65.5% from the field and 61.5% from three during the preseason, could George be on the verge of a breakout season?

Finally, Bilal Coulibaly's rookie contract extension deadline has arrived! Could Washington's...

The Washington Wizards wrapped up their preseason against the New Orleans Pelicans, but several questions remain heading into opening night! AJ Dybantsa exited the preseason finale after rolling his ankle, with Washington holding its No. 1 overall pick out for precautionary reasons. Did the Wizards avoid a serious injury just days before the regular season begins? On today's Locked On Wizards, we discuss Dybantsa's injury scare and why protecting his long-term health must be the organization's top priority. Plus, Trae Young's struggles to create his own shot are becoming an intriguing storyline. While Young's elite court vision has generated plenty...

The Washington Wizards are FINALLY getting respect around the NBA!

The NBA's annual GM survey is out, and league executives are taking notice of Washington's young core and potential to make a massive leap this season! After years of rebuilding, are the Wizards finally turning the corner?

On today's Locked On Wizards, we break down EVERY Wizards mention in the 2026-27 NBA GM survey, including Washington finishing SECOND in voting for the NBA's most improved team and second for the league's most promising young core. Plus, AJ Dybantsa is receiving major recognition for his long-term...

The clock is ticking for the Washington Wizards to reach a rookie contract extension with Bilal Coulibaly! With the October 19 deadline rapidly approaching, will Washington lock up its young defensive standout before the regular season begins?

On today's Locked On Wizards, we explain why a deal SHOULD get done this weekend and how extending Coulibaly now could become one of the Wizards' smartest long-term investments.

We compare Bilal's potential contract to the extensions Washington previously handed Deni Avdija and Corey Kispert, discuss why a four-year, $60 million deal could make sense, and examine how locking up...

Henry Brown] from Wizards on SI joins to dissect Bilal Coulibaly’s offensive leap, AJ Dybantsa’s defensive impact, and Trae Young’s playmaking ceiling. The episode highlights the upcoming Wizards rebrand, with concept jerseys sparking excitement about a new era in D.C. basketball. As the Wizards prepare to host the Milwaukee Bucks on opening night, all eyes are on whether this dynamic roster can translate preseason highs into regular season wins.

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Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George are showing why they could be two of the Washington Wizards' most important players this season!
Both young wings are showing they can impact winning in multiple ways, giving Washington a glimpse of how valuable their versatility could become. Meanwhile, Trae Young's elite court vision continues to generate open looks and elevate his teammates. But with turnovers emerging as a major concern early in the preseason, can Young find the right balance between creativity and taking care of the basketball?

Plus, the Wizards got a look at life without Anthony Davis...

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the Wizards’ preseason, spotlighting 49 turnovers through just two games despite victories over the Knicks and Pistons. Tackling issues like half-court chemistry, missed connections between Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr, and the challenge of integrating young players, they dig into head coach Brian Keefe’s options to accelerate growth. Discussion highlights the importance of disciplined basketball, backup point guard struggles, and defensive playmaking from rising stars like Bub Carrington and AJ Dybantsa. Insightful analysis of turnover benchmarks, defensive rating improvements, and the impact of upcoming matchups against Milwaukee and Toronto make this a must...

The Washington Wizards put on an OFFENSIVE SHOW against the Detroit Pistons, exploding for 40 first-quarter points and showcasing just how dangerous this team can be in transition! Led by Trae Young's playmaking, AJ Dybantsa's athleticism, and Tre Johnson's red-hot shooting, Washington overwhelmed Detroit early. The Wizards scored 21 fast-break points in the first half, while Johnson provided an instant spark off the bench with 12 points and FOUR three-pointers in under 11 minutes!

But it wasn't all positive. Washington committed 13 first-half turnovers and watched a 20-point lead shrink to just six at halftime. Can Brian Keefe get the half-court offense...

Washington Wizards raise eyebrows as Kyshawn George steps into a demanding dual role—shutting down elite perimeter threats and steering the offense when Trae Young rests. Can Washington’s young core shoulder such responsibilities, or is the coaching staff risking burnout ahead of a pivotal season? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi dive into George’s preseason performance, Justin Champagnie's relentless impact off the bench, and AJ DeBansa’s sky-high rookie potential alongside Anthony Davis. Hot topics include Washington’s rebounding resurgence with DeAndre Ayton, the ongoing backup point guard question between Bub Carrington and Tre Mann, and lineup experiments as the Wiz...

The Washington Wizards are BACK, and their preseason opener against the New York Knicks gave fans plenty of reasons to be excited!
No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa made an immediate statement on DEFENSE, recording four steals while adding 11 points in his Wizards preseason debut. Meanwhile, Trae Young and Anthony Davis showed exactly why Washington could take a massive leap forward this season, combining for 31 points in the first half! Plus, don't overlook Deandre Ayton! The veteran big man grabbed 10 rebounds in just 17 first-half minutes, hinting at how much Washington's rebounding could improve.

On today's Locked On...

Key debates include AJ Dybantsa's off-ball adaptation alongside Trae Young, the team’s expectations for a legitimate defensive leap, and which young bench players—like Bub Carrington and Will Riley—must step up with rotation spots on the line. With the Wizards aiming for a play-in push, who will cement themselves as long-term building blocks under Brian Keefe’s new system?

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Key discussions focus on which Wizards can consistently hit open looks, the risks of relying on mid-range shots, and how Trae Young’s elite playmaking may unlock higher efficiency and more serious attempts. The hosts break down Anthony Davis’ spacing role, Alex Sarr’s scoring potential, and future contract implications for Davis. With preseason basketball just days away, is this the year Washington finally becomes a top-tier 3-point shooting team?

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The hosts spotlight AJ Dybantsa's unique position as the number-one pick without franchise-carrying pressure, thanks to established teammates Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Can Dybantsa balance immediate winning expectations with long-term development in a crowded rookie class featuring Cam Boozer and Caleb Wilson? With preseason action set at Madison Square Garden, Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi explore key storylines, including Bilal Coulibaly’s revamped jumper and fierce competition for starting roles.

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Locked On Wizards confront the “Wizards tax” as Anthony Davis is the only Washington Wizard in the Locked On NBA Top 100, landing at just 43rd—while Trae Young plummets from 26th to unranked after arriving in D.C. Are young talents like Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, and AJ Dybantsa being unfairly overlooked due to reputation and recent struggles? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the jaw-dropping omissions and head-scratching rankings, questioning how injuries, market perception, and Washington’s tanking season skew voters’ perspectives. They analyze surprising inclusions like Zach Edey and CJ McCollum, debate the logic behind projecting future sta...

Key discussions spotlight rookie growth from Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, and Will Riley, defensive rebounding upgrades, and the strategic evolution under Coach Brian Keefe. Insights on Washington’s looming rotation battles, early-season schedule, and fan expectations set the stage for a potentially electrifying campaign. Will the Wizards’ renewed confidence finally translate into on-court success and a competitive Eastern Conference run?

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Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the revamped roster’s defensive upside, examine how perimeter defenders like Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George will help mask Trae Young’s liability, and debate whether a top-15 defense is a realistic benchmark. The hosts spotlight rebounding battles, potential lineup changes, and the need for frontcourt health, while also reacting to Anthony Davis’ calculated comments about his future in D.C. Is this the year the Wizards finally back up their defensive talk—and which young standout could emerge as an All-Defensive Team candidate? Don’t miss this deep dive into the Wizards’ n...

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi deliver exclusive interviews with Middleton, Anthony Gill, and Will Riley, revealing the locker room’s mindset ahead of a pivotal season. Topics include Middleton’s multifaceted role, Gill’s mentorship of young talent, and Riley’s offseason development. The hosts break down Brian Keefe’s vision, competition for minutes, and why DC fans are buzzing with playoff hopes. Hear inside perspectives on team chemistry, leadership, and which young Wizards are poised for breakout campaigns.

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Washington Wizards enter training camp with jobs on the line as fierce position battles unfold for starting and rotation roles. Who claims the coveted starting shooting guard spot—Bilal Coulibaly’s elite defense, Kyshawn George’s balanced two-way play, or Tre Johnson’s sharpshooting? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the high-stakes competition across the roster, focusing on the backup point guard committee, the backup power forward race, and the fight for the final two-way contract between Reece Beekman and Chris Livingston.'

With Trae Young, AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr, and Deandre Ayton set to lead...

Washington Wizards signal a new era as GM Will Dawkins emphasizes a shift from pure development to winning basketball, with Trae Young and Anthony Davis ready to elevate the young core. Can veteran leadership from AD, Trae, Khris Middleton, and Deandre Ayton finally turn individual progress into team victories?

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down the biggest revelations from Dawkins’ press conference, including defensive overhaul ambitions, the anticipated impact of AJ Dybantsa's rookie season, and how the “sleeping bag gang” of hungry young players is changing expectations. Key discussion points include the Wizards’ frontcourt depth, the defensiv...

Washington Wizards face criticism as national narratives question their rebuild strategy—is the skepticism justified, or is D.C. being misunderstood? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi tackle Michael Pina’s controversial power rankings, dissecting Trae Young and Anthony Davis’ arrivals, Khris Middleton’s veteran role, and the impact of DeAndre Ayton as a key frontcourt addition. Key topics include the Wizards’ financial and organizational rationale for recent trades, the balance between veteran experience and developing young talents like AJ Dybantsa, Bilal Coulibaly, and Alex Sarr, and Head Coach Brian Keefe’s challenge to maximize minutes for a promising roster. Can Trae You...

Washington Wizards unlock Tre Johnson’s scoring potential as a lethal young shooter with Trae Young at the helm. Can this revamped roster finally maximize Johnson’s strengths and boost the team’s offensive firepower?

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down Tre Johnson’s evolving role, the Wizards’ improved floor spacing, and the impact of key additions like AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis, and Bub Carrington. Examining lineup possibilities, playmaking upside, and defensive concerns, they debate whether Johnson should start or thrive as a Sixth Man. The hosts also spotlight the team’s shift from tanking to developing y...

Ben Strober, Gavin Schall, and Abdullah Ayubi debate whether the Wizards’ bold offseason moves—anchored by Trae Young’s extension and key additions Alex Sarr and Anthony Davis—can end decades of futility. Insights on rookie Tristan Vukcevic, the challenge of balancing veteran urgency with player development, and the role of Brian Keefe’s leadership paint a vivid picture of the team’s ambitious strategy. With lessons from the Knicks’ integration of defensive role players and culture-building, the hosts explore whether the Wizards’ new core has what it takes to challenge East powerhouses like the Celtics and Raptors. Can Washington final...

Washington Wizards ignite new era with AJ Dybantsa's electrifying arrival—can this revamped young core finally deliver on long-awaited expectations? Ben Strober, Chris Miller, and Abdullah Ayubi break down why the buzz around the Wizards is at a two-decade high, spotlighting Dybantsa's Summer League dominance, the impact of Trae Young and Anthony Davis, and which overlooked prospects could become surprise contributors. The conversation dives into the roster’s defensive potential, key lineup combinations, and how veterans may smooth Dybantsa's NBA transition. Can Will Riley and Bilal Coulibaly emerge as x-factors? How does Coach Brian Keefe maximize this rare blend of y...

Washington Wizards reset expectations with AJ Dybantsa's arrival and a transformed veteran core. With Trae Young locked in on a four-year, $212 million deal and DeAndre Ayton strengthening the frontcourt, can the Wizards finally make the jump from rebuilding to contenders in the East? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi grade every offseason move, from the franchise-altering AJ Dybantsa pick and the savvy DeAndre Ayton trade to key veteran additions like Khris Middleton and the reunion with Anthony Gill. Hot topics include frontcourt depth, backup point guard questions with Trae Mann, and the impact of new assistant coaches Steve Clifford and...

Washington Wizards face a rare challenge: too many rotation-worthy players jockeying for minutes as training camp approaches. With Trae Young and AJ Dybantsa anchoring the lineup, fierce battles loom for critical roles—will Kyshawn George, Bilal Coulibaly, or Tre Johnson lock down starting spots? The depth dilemma intensifies with new acquisitions like Deandre Ayton and the ongoing debate over Will Riley’s development versus the win-now mandate. Ben Strober, Greg Finberg, and Abdullah Ayubi break down Brian Keefe’s rotation puzzles, spotlighting contract-year stakes for Coulibaly and the implications of double-big lineups with Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr. Can Champa...

Washington Wizards round out their roster with the return of locker room leader Anthony Gill. With veterans like Trae Young, Anthony Davis, and Khris Middleton anchoring a roster filled with rising stars AJ Dybantsa, Alex Sarr, and Kyshawn George, expectations in D.C. soar as fans wonder: Is a 40-win breakout season now within reach? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi evaluate the impact of Gill’s leadership, break down the team’s depth, and debate who should be protected in a potential 2028 NBA expansion draft. The hosts highlight competitive East matchups ahead, speculate on play-in hopes, and analyze the shif...

Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi analyze Sarr’s offensive leap—highlighting his surged efficiency, refined shot selection, and unique skill set at center. They spotlight how Trae Young’s elite playmaking unlocks Sarr’s lob threat and rim-rolling potential while unpacking defensive upside alongside Anthony Davis and DeAndre Ayton. The discussion covers Sarr’s improved strength, rebounding outlook, and which lineup combinations will drive the Wizards’ playoff push. Will Sarr’s continued development turn Washington into a top-10 offense, and can he finally break the franchise’s All-Defense drought?

Don’t miss this sharp breakdown of the Washington Wizards...

Washington Wizards eye a defensive transformation with AJ Dybantsa's arrival. Could the number one pick’s two-way impact shift the franchise’s trajectory? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi examine how Dybantsa's size, wingspan, and athleticism might turbocharge the Wizards’ defense after years at the NBA’s bottom. They break down his Summer League stats—2.5 steals, 1.5 blocks per game—and highlight what improvement means for a core featuring Trae Young, Anthony Davis, and Alex Sarr. Key topics include Dybantsa's transition from offensive star at BYU to NBA defender, the importance of discipline, and how Brian Keefe could craft versatile lineups with Washing...

Washington Wizards face a pivotal test: with star power headlined by Trae Young and Anthony Davis, and number one pick AJ Dybantsa joining, who takes command in clutch moments? The offensive hierarchy is up for grabs as veterans battle rising talent for late-game shot opportunities and key roles. Can Trae Young shift from Atlanta’s volume scorer to the Wizards’ primary facilitator, and how soon will Dybantsa step into the spotlight? Hosts Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi are joined by Henry Brown and dissect early usage trends, lineup versatility, and the impacts of roster depth—including names like Kyshawn George...

Washington Wizards boast the NBA’s deepest bench—can their revamped roster finally transform depth into wins? DeAndre Ayton steps into a critical backup role, while Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, and Justin Champagnie spark a fierce internal battle for minutes. How will Coach Brian Keefe juggle this abundance of starting-caliber talent and keep the Wizards competitive all season? Analysis spotlights Ayton’s impact on rebounding, the versatility of young wings like Kyshawn and Riley, and the strategic challenge of managing a possible 12-man rotation. Listeners get a breakdown of Washington’s improved ability to withstand injuries, questions about closing lineups...

Washington Wizards confront a potential spacing crisis as their newly talented roster seeks the right offensive chemistry. Can Trae Young, Kyshawn George, AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis, and Alex Sarr mesh despite concerns about outside shooting? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi assess whether George's sharpshooting and Sarr’s development from deep can offset the lineup’s 3-point limitations. The duo weighs how rim pressure, pick-and-roll action, and creative rotations with DeAndre Ayton could define the Wizards’ attack. Key segments spotlight the impact of defensive upgrades, rebounding expectations, and how Washington can follow the Orlando Magic’s blueprint for success without elite ou...

Washington Wizards eye seismic leap in Locked On NBA Top 100—are five Wizards about to make the cut after just one was ranked a year ago? National recognition remains elusive, but the influx of Anthony Davis and Trae Young, along with breakout seasons from Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, and No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa, positions Washington as a resurgent force. Can media perceptions finally shift as Wizards talent emerges from the shadows? Ben Strober and Abdullah Ayubi break down voter biases, dissect where Wizards players may fall in the Top 100, and spotlight the challenges faced by young stars still fi...