Wizards Eyeing AJ Dybantsa With No. 1 Pick?

reported a couple days ago that Washington “currently” plans to take Dybantsa, who’s ranked No. 2 on ESPN’s big board but goes first in the latest mock draft from ESPN’s Jeremy Woo.

Woo, Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report, and Charania all say opposing teams continue to think the Wizards will select Dybantsa, a 6’9″ wing who led the NCAA in scoring as a freshman.

“The league-wide belief right now is that BYU’s AJ Dybantsa is who is being looked at strongest for that No. 1 overall pick with the Washington Wizards,” Charania said. “ … They are really narrowing on AJ Dybantsa because of his fit as a wing player, his flair, the passion he plays with as a fit alongside Trae Young at point guard and Anthony Davis at center.

“ … We’ll see what happens. Likely what we’re looking at is AJ Dybantsa at one, potentially.”

Charania and Woo reported last week that the Wizards were deciding between Dybantsa and Kansas guard Darryn Peterson for the top pick. Both players indicated on Monday that Washington hadn’t informed them about who the team plans to select, according to Josh Robbins of The Athletic.

“I’m going to find out when you find out,” Dybantsa said.

Although Peterson declined to work out for the Jazz, who control the second pick, he said he met with the team over the weekend, Robbins writes.

“(It was) just a decision that was made, but I’m definitely not dodging any team. Whoever takes me, I’m going to come in and be delighted to be there,” Peterson said. “And wherever that happens to be, they’ll get the best me. But I’m not dodging any team. I’m ready to play for whoever.”

Peterson did work out for the Wizards, however, and said he enjoyed his time around the team. Both players believe they’d be good fits in D.C., Robbins adds.

“I went out there and met with the staff and the GMs and all that, and we connected, which is something huge for me.” Peterson said. “I want to have a connection with those guys. On the court, (the Wizards have) a young core. I’m going to be coming in as a young guy and playing beside some of those guys I know, I feel like I would fit in perfect.”