RSS Wizards Team Notes

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards at Cavaliers preview: Washington visits red-hot Cleveland

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 12: Will Riley #27 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket as Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers plays defense during the game on December 12, 2025 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Kenny Giarla/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Washington Wizards head to Ohio on Wednesday to take on a streaking Cleveland Cavaliers team at Rocket Arena.

Game info​

When: Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 7:00 p.m. ET

Where: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio

How to watch: Monumental Sports Network, League Pass

Injuries: For the Wizards, Kyshawn George (back), Anthony Gill (hamstring), and Bilal Coulibaly (heel) are questionable, while Trae Young (knee, quad), Anthony Davis (hand, groin), Cam Whitmore (shoulder), and D’Angelo Russell (uncertain future) are out.

For the Cavaliers, Dean Wade (ankle), Evan Mobley (calf), and Max Strus (foot) are out.

What to watch for​

The two East teams that drastically revamped their rosters at the NBA trade deadline are set to face off on Wednesday night. While the Wizards’ newest acquisitions, Anthony Davis and Trae Young, are not playing anytime soon, the Cavaliers have hit the ground running with James Harden.

The Cavs scored big wins in each of Harden’s first two contests with his new squad, improving the team’s record to 9-1 over their last 10 games. The Wizards, meanwhile, have leaned even further into the youth movement.

Will Riley, Jamir Watkins, Sharife Cooper, and Tristan Vukcevic have all received extended run over Washington’s last three games. There’s no reason to expect that to change against the Cavs with the Wiz still looking to secure more draft lottery combinations.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...s-preview-washington-visits-red-hot-cleveland

 

[Washington Wizards]

Dawkins: ‘Highly likely’ Davis, Young play this season

Apr 2, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) looks to pass as Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) defends during the fourth quarter at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

During an appearance on The Sports Junkies on Tuesday, Wizards General Manager Will Dawkins shut down reports that Anthony Davis won’t play this season.

“I would say highly likely,” Dawkins said when asked about Davis and Trae Young playing this season. “That’s the goal. We want to see our guys together so we can build camaraderie and build some continuity towards the end of the season.”

Wizards general manager Will Dawkins said he believes it's "highly likely" that Trae Young and Anthony Davis play this season.

"That's the goal. We want to see our guys together so we can build camaraderie and build some continuity towards the end of the season."

— Ben Strober (@strobersports) February 10, 2026

Davis suffered ligament damage in his left hand on Jan. 8. It was reported on Jan. 13 that Davis would forego surgery and be re-evaluated in six weeks.

Following Wednesday’s trade for Davis, Chris Haynes reported that the 32-year-old forward would miss the remainder of the season as he rehabs his hand injury. But Dawkins’ recent comments, both on Sunday before the Wizards’ game and on radio Tuesday, contradict that report.

Dawkins said in January that the plan is to re-evaluate Young, who hasn’t played with the Wizards while he rehabs an MCL sprain and a quad contusion, after the All-Star break. He said Davis, who was listed with a finger sprain, will continue rehabbing his hand injury in Dallas and will have an important doctor’s appointment during the All-Star break.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...ns-highly-likely-davis-young-play-this-season

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards sign Kadary Richmond to 10-day contract

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 16: Kadary Richmond #19 of the Washington Wizards dribbles the ball during the game against the Utah Jazz during the 2025 NBA Summer League game on July 16, 2025 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Logan Riely/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Washington Wizards have signed Kadary Richmond to a 10-day contract, the team announced Wednesday.

Official: The Washington Wizards have signed Kadary Richmond to a 10-Day Contract.

Read more: https://t.co/PRFgNHRXFT
Pres. by @RobinhoodApp pic.twitter.com/kLYqIR3O7U

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 11, 2026

Richmond, 24, played Summer League with the Wizards before he later signed with the Capital City Go-Go, the organization’s G League affiliate.

In 23 games appearances with the Go-Go this season, the 6-foot-5 guard has averaged 8.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game on 45.7% FG. Richmond played five collegiate seasons with three programs: Syracuse, Seton Hall and St. John’s.

The Wizards’ roster sits at 13 standard NBA contracts and three two-way deals. Keshon Gilbert and Richmond now occupy the final two roster spots, with both on 10-day contracts.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...zards-sign-kadary-richmond-to-10-day-contract

 

[Washington Wizards]

Bub Carrington named Rising Stars replacement

Washington Wizards guard Bub Carrington played a solid game in the team’s loss to the Sacramento Kings. | NBAE via Getty Images

Washington Wizards guard Bub Carrington was named a replacement for the Castrol Rising Stars game, the NBA announced Thursday.

Wizards guard Bub Carrington will replace fellow sophomore and teammate Alex Sarr on Team T-Mac in the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars.

Sarr is out with a hamstring strain.

Rising Stars: Friday, Feb. 13 | 9 PM ET | Peacock pic.twitter.com/VlbD2NrShD

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) February 12, 2026

Carrington replaces teammate Alex Sarr, who is sidelined for “approximately two weeks” with a right hamstring strain.

The second-year guard has appeared in all 53 of Washington’s games this season. He’s averaged 10.2 points and 4.6 assists per game on 39.3% 3PT.

That's tuff Bub pic.twitter.com/yfecdwSZS9

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 12, 2026

Carrington will join teammates Tre Johnson and Kyshawn George, who were earlier selected as Rising Stars.

The Castrol Rising Stars game is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET on Friday. It will be streamed on Peacock.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...bub-carrington-named-rising-stars-replacement

 

[Washington Wizards]

Sarr to miss ‘at least two weeks’ with hamstring strain

MILWAUKEE, WI - DECEMBER 31: Alexandre Sarr #20 of the Washington Wizards looks on during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 31, 2025 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images

Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr will miss approximately two weeks with a right hamstring strain, the team announced Thursday.

ALEX SARR INJURY UPDATE pic.twitter.com/OFaXB4qgFI

— Wizards PR (@WizPRStats) February 12, 2026

Sarr, 20, was a late addition to Washington’s injury report and was held out of the team’s 138-113 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday. He will miss the Castrol Rising Stars game this Friday and be re-evaluated in two weeks.

The second-year center is likely to miss at least five games during that stretch: vs. Pacers, vs. Pacers, vs. Hornets, @ Hawks, @ Hawks.

Sarr is one of three players averaging at least 17 points, seven rebounds and two blocks this season. His 2.0 blocks per game ranks second in the NBA, trailing only Victor Wembanyama’s 2.7.

With Sarr sidelined and Anthony Davis still recovering from a left finger sprain, Tristan Vukcevic is Washington’s lone healthy center. The 22-year-old will likely start in Sarr’s place until he returns from injury.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...miss-at-least-two-weeks-with-hamstring-strain

 

[Washington Wizards]

All-Star Break Checkup: Where’s the Signal?

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 08: Will Riley #27 of the Washington Wizards blocks a shot in the first quarter against Kasparas Jakucionis #25 of the Miami Heat at Capital One Arena on February 08, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Wizards lost by 25 to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a game that I just don’t want to think or write about. Except for this: the person watching last night’s game with me thought it was nice James Harden was introduced as part of a ceremony to honor old-time players. They were shocked to learn he was playing.

Instead of talking about defensive rotations and offensive actions against Cleveland, let’s zoom out and take stock of the Wizards season so far.

The Measuring Stick​

Here’s where the Wizards currently rank in the various key stats of team strength (where they ranked at the last update, which was Jan. 20, is in parentheses):

• Offensive rating (points allowed per 100 possessions): 28 (28)
• Defensive rating (points scored per 100 possessions): 29 (29)

I’m reasonably sure I’ve spotted moments of growth and improvement, though those moments haven’t been consistent enough to send a signal through the numbers. That signal isn’t necessarily important right now. The roster is extremely young, and the overarching organizational goal is keeping their top eight protected first round pick.

At least in theory, we might hope to see some positives in the individual numbers, but team data will remain in the basement because the team needs to lose.

Some of this will (and has been) done at the roster level. For example, sitting everyone with “injuries” in a must-lose game against the Brooklyn Nets. Some of it will (and has been) done at the lineup level, such as playing two-way and G League guys for entire fourth quarters (and winning a game anyway) or starting the diminutive lineup they did against Cleveland last night (the tallest player was the 6-8 Kyshawn George).

Offensive Four Factors​

• eFG%: 26 (23)
• Offensive Rebounding Percentage: 16 (19)
• Turnover Rate: 24 (26)
• Free Throws Made/Field Goal Attempts: 26 (27)

Over the past few weeks, the Wizards are shooting a little worse but getting a few more offensive rebounds. This is something of a young team cliche, which is fine.

Defensive Four Factors​

• eFG%: 24 (22)
• Defensive Rebounding Percentage: 30 (30)
• Turnover Rate: 27 (28)
• Free Throws Made/Field Goal Attempts: 23 (21)

Effectively no change on the defensive end. Opponents are shooting slightly better, which has been sorta offset by committing fewer fouls that send opposing players to the free throw line. The signal here is clear: the Wizards don’t make the other team miss shots, they’re worst in the league at getting the ball when the opposing team misses, and they don’t force turnovers. They also foul at an elevated rate relative to the league.

Player Production Average​

Below is a table with updated results from the Player Production Average (PPA) metric so far this season. PPA is an overall rating metric I developed that credits players for things they do that help a team win (scoring, rebounding, play-making, defending) and debits them for things that hurt the cause (missed shots, turnovers, fouls, ineffective defense). PPA is similar to other linear weight rating metrics such as John Hollinger’s PER, David Berri’s Wins Produced, Kevin Pelton’s VORP, and the granddaddy of them all, Dave Heeren’s TENDEX.

PPA weighs a player’s performance per possession against that of his competitors season by season. While PPA falls into the category of a linear weight metric, the values for statistical categories float a bit season-to-season based on league performance.

PPA is pace neutral, accounts for defense, and includes a “degree of difficulty” factor based on the level of competition a player faces while on the floor. Beginning with the 2019-20 season, I added a position/role adjustment designed to reflect how roles and on-court positioning affect individual abilities to produce certain stats.

Inputs include:

• on-court team defensive rating
• points
• rebounds (offensive and defensive weighed differently)
• assists
• steals
• blocks
• shot attempts
• turnovers
• personal fouls
• starts
• minutes

In the table below, I’ve included each player’s PPA last time, currently (through games played Feb. 11 — game 53), as well as games played and minutes per game. The Garbage Time Brigade has their own section.

In the table below, LAST = the player’s PPA when I last ran an update, which was through games played Jan. 19, 2026.

PLAYER	GAMES	MPG	LAST	PPA
Alex Sarr	41	28.2	145	138
Justin Champagnie	50	19.3	96	108
Kyshawn George	43	30.1	94	97
Tre Johnson	40	25.0	80	82
Bilal Coulibaly	33	26.8	81	80
Malaki Branham	28	9.8	56	58
Bub Carrington	53	28.0	51	53
Tristan Vukcevic	33	11.9	46	52
Cam Whitmore	21	16.9	49	49
Will Riley	45	16.6	34	46
GTB	GAMES	MPG	PPA	PPA
Kadary Richmond	1	6.0	315
Jaden Hardy	1	15.0	99
Skal Labissiere	3	12.7	73
Anthony Gill	19	3.8	48	48
Jamir Watkins	17	13.4	29	29
Keshon Gilbert	3	16.0	8

A few quick observations:

• Alex Sarr’s production has been drooping a bit lately. Over the past few weeks, he has had some good games and great moments, as well as some real duds. He’s more than a little overtaxed inside where he continues to be the NBA’s busiest rim protector.
• Justin Champagnie has generally produced when given minutes.
• When I mentioned earlier how perceived improvement isn’t sending a signal in the numbers, I was thinking in part of the overall consistency in individual production numbers. Scanning the list, Sarr has declined a bit, Champagnie and Will Riley have improved, and everyone else has been about the same.

Final PPA numbers for traded guys — with the Wizards and then with their new team:

• CJ McCollum: 113 | 91
• Marvin Bagley III: 103 | 130
• Khris Middleton: 83 | 99
• Corey Kispert: 79 | 76
• AJ Johnson: 0 | -98

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...8052/all-star-break-checkup-wheres-the-signal

 

[Washington Wizards]

NBA Rising Stars 2026 recap: Team Vince wins championship

INGLEWOOD, CA - FEBRUARY 13: Kyshawn George #18 of Team Vince drives to the basket during the game against Team T-Mac during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend Rising Stars Game on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Team Vince won the 2026 NBA Rising Stars championship on Friday night with Washington Wizards guard Kyshawn George contributing in both contests.

In the semifinals, Team Vince played Team T-Mac which also featured Wizards guard Bub Carrington and forward Tre Johnson. In that contest, Team Vince won 41-36 with George scoring 4 points and VJ Edgecombe leading the way with 17 points for the victors. For Team T-Mac, Johnson scored 8 points while Carrington also scored 2 more.

In the other semifinal, Team Melo beat Team Austin, 40-34.

The final had Team Vince facing off against Team Melo and won 25-24. George scored 2 points while Edgecombe led again with 6 points. Edgecombe also won the Rising Stars MVP award.

It’s good to see one of the Wizards’ younger players come away with some hardware leaving the Rising Stars challenge. From hereon, Washington won’t really be part of All-Star Weekend. So I hope you enjoy Valentine’s Day tomorrow and the long weekend which includes President’s Day on Monday.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...stars-2026-recap-team-vince-wins-championship

 

[Washington Wizards]

Breaking down MCL sprains like Trae Young’s with an expert

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 08: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards watches the game against the Miami Heat at Capital One Arena on February 08, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Washington Wizards guard Trae Young is the team’s biggest acquisition since Will Dawkins became the team’s General Manager. However, Young has an MCL sprain in his right knee and has yet to play a game. It’s possible that he may not play until the start of the 2026-27 NBA season.

So what are these injuries like?

Dr. Robert Volk, a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon for The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, gave us some time to break down what this injury is, how long it takes to recover from it and more. Dr. Volk has experience working as a physician for numerous professional sports teams like the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NHL’s Florida Panthers and in NCAA Division I athletics for Florida International University. He has also been a U.S. Navy physician at Walter Reed Navy Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. and has treated several members of the U.S. Congress.

As a disclaimer, Dr. Volk’s statements are spoke in the aggregate and aren’t specific to Young’s situation. They are also not official diagnoses. Please consult your physician for your situation.

BF: What is the typical recovery time for this type of injury?

Dr. Volk: The recovery really depends on the severity of the sprain. A mild MCL sprain can improve within a couple of weeks, while a moderate sprain often takes four to six weeks or longer. When you add a quadriceps strain to the equation, it can extend the timeline because you’re not just waiting for the ligament to heal — you also need full strength, explosiveness, and endurance back in the quad before returning to NBA-level intensity. For a player who relies heavily on quickness and change of direction, that’s critical.

What key aspects of basketball does this injury affect the most?

Volk: The MCL helps stabilize the inside of the knee, especially with side-to-side movement. In basketball, that affects cutting, defensive slides, sudden stops, and absorbing contact. The quadriceps is essential for acceleration, jumping, and overall burst. So, this combination primarily impacts lateral movement, explosiveness, and the ability to decelerate and re-accelerate — which are foundational to a guard’s game.

Should Young be worried about repeating this injury again once he’s back?

Volk: The good news is that isolated MCL sprains generally heal well without surgery, and reinjury rates are relatively low when rehabilitation is thorough. The biggest concern isn’t the ligament itself — it’s making sure strength, balance, and neuromuscular control are fully restored before returning to play. At the professional level, return-to-play decisions are based on objective functional milestones, not just the calendar, which significantly reduces recurrence risk.

Anything else to note about this injury?

Volk: With injuries like this, healing on imaging is only part of the story. The real test is whether the athlete can cut at full speed, absorb contact, and perform under game fatigue without hesitation. If rehab is completed properly and strength symmetry is restored, most athletes are able to return to their prior level of performance.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...young-mcl-sprain-knee-injury-doctor-interview

 

[Washington Wizards]

SB Nation Reacts: Most NBA fans don’t understand the All-Star Game format

MILWAUKEE, WI - JANUARY 21: The Milwaukee Bucks announce that Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks will be a starter in the all star game during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on January 21, 2026 at Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images). | NBAE via Getty Images

With the NBA All-Star Game this long weekend, fans get to see an exhibition of the biggest stars in the league. As Washington Wizards fans, well, we know that our team won’t be in it. But at least it’s an interesting game to watch when players choose to put forth a decent effort.

Anyway, this week’s SB Nation Reacts survey was about how you felt about whether you understand the tournament format of the game. Only 42 percent did.

This is not surprising pic.twitter.com/Ixm2oPv1rz

— Bullets Forever (@BulletsForever) February 13, 2026

This year’s format is a four team affair with three teams, two made up of American players (Stars, Stripes) and one of non-Americans (World). There is a round robin before the final match.

I like the format of USA vs. the World, especially with the NBA’s best players all coming from outside the USA. But I agree that the format is confusing.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

---

FanDuel is an SB Nation/Vox Media partner.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/comm...fans-dont-understand-the-all-star-game-format

 

[Washington Wizards]

2026 NBA All-Star Friday preview: Multiple Wizards to be in the Rising Stars contest

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 12: Alexandre Sarr #20, Kyshawn George #18 and Tre Johnson #12 of the Washington Wizards pose for a portrait during the NBAE Media Day Circuit Portraits as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Hilton Santa Monica in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Zach Barron/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The NBA’s All-Star Weekend is here! Tonight, we will see various games like the annual celebrity game. But the headline event is the Rising Stars challenge. Here is what’s in store.

Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game​

• Time and how to watch: 7 p.m. ET on ESPN
• What it is: A roster of entertainers and some former basketball players play in an exhibition game. One notable exception this year: there are no WNBA players in the game. This is likely not an accident because of the WNBA’s unresolved Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations with the WNBPA players union.

Rising Stars Challenge​

• Time and how to watch: 9 p.m. ET on Peacock.
• What it is: This is the tournament-style showcase featuring rookies and second-year players.
• Wizards in the Rising Stars Challenge: Washington has two players on Team T-Mac: Tre Johnson, and Bub Carrington. Carrington replaced Alex Sarr. And the Wizards will also have Kyshawn George on Team Vince.
• When will the Wizards play in the game? Team Vince will play Team T-Mac in the semifinals at approximately 9:55 p.m. ET. The final will be at about 10:35 p.m. ET for the winner between Team Austin vs. Team Melo and the winner of Team Vince vs. Team T-Mac.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...ple-wizards-to-be-in-the-rising-stars-contest

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards at Cavaliers final score: Washington trampled in Cleveland, 138-113

Feb 11, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; ICleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives to the basket beside Washington Wizards forward Kyshawn George (18) n the third quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images | David Richard-Imagn Images

The Washington Wizards were outclassed from the opening tip on Wednesday in a 138-113 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena.

The Wiz were outscored 23-5 in the opening five minutes as the Cavs got a sizzling shooting night from Donovan Mitchell and especially Sam Merrill, who combined for 15 of those early points. Kyshawn George kept the team afloat with his 13 points in the first quarter as Washington trailed 40-24 entering the second. George got to the line at will, drawing and making 8 free throws.

Sharife Cooper made his presence felt in Q2. He hit three triples and scored all 11 of his points in the period. The Wizards didn’t make much headway, however, as Merrill stayed blazing hot. The Cavaliers sharpshooter went 9-of-9 from the field and 7-of-7 from beyond the arc for 26 points before halftime, keeping Washington behind 76-61.

The Wizards made things interesting to start the second half. George and Bilal Coulibaly led the team to a 12-2 run to get the good guys as close as 78-73. Bub Carrington found his offense midway through the third quarter, sinking middies on three straight possessions.

That's tuff Bub pic.twitter.com/yfecdwSZS9

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 12, 2026

The Cavs kept the Wiz at bay with a 10-2 run to end the third, taking a 109-89 lead into the final period. Washington waved the white flag in the fourth quarter, fielding a full-on bench lineup to close out the game.

George paced the Wizards with 17 points, but it was Jamir Watkins who surprisingly led the team with 16 shot attempts. The rookie scored 16 points and made a pair of three-pointers. Jaden Hardy tallied 11 points off the bench in his debut.

Tre Johnson and Will Riley both struggled to find their strokes, combining for 14 points on 5-of-25 shooting.

The Wizards enter the All-Star break with a 14-39 record. Next up is a back-to-back set with the 15-40 Indiana Pacers that carries serious draft lottery implications.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...core-washington-trampled-in-cleveland-138-113

 

[Washington Wizards]

Breaking down finger injuries like Anthony Davis’ with a medical expert

DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 24: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks drives to the basket as Alexandre Sarr #20 of the Washington Wizards plays defense during the game on October 24, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Sam Hodde/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Washington Wizards post Anthony Davis has yet to play a game for his new team. And he realistically won’t play again until the start of the 2026-27 season when the Wizards are poised to make the postseason for the first time since 2020-21, at least on paper.

Davis has suffered a number of injuries in recent years. But not long before his trade to Washington, Davis injured his left hand and finger in a game for the Dallas Mavericks when they were playing the Utah Jazz on Jan. 8, 2026. He sustained ligament damage and faced the possibility of having surgery, though Davis ultimately refused.

To break down hand and finger injuries, we spoke with Dr. Noah Raizman, an orthopaedic surgeon for The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, specializing in hand and upper extremity surgery. Dr. Raizman has worked with athletes at the high school, NCAA Division I and professional levels, including for active players on the PGA Tour, the MLB’s Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians, and the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers.

As a disclaimer, Dr. Volk’s statements are spoke in the aggregate and aren’t specific to Young’s situation. They are also not official diagnoses. Please consult your physician for your situation.

BF: What kind of injury did Davis have within his hand?

Dr. Raizman: While the Dallas Mavericks [Davis’ team at the time of injury] did not disclose what specific injury is, it is likely a volar plate injury on one of the small joints in the metacarpal phalange.

(Note: In plain English, what Dr. Raizman wrote is that Davis may have injured his hand by jamming a finger and getting a torn or stretched ligament at the knuckle joint in the process.)

BF: What is the typical recovery time for this type of injury?

Dr. Raizman: It typically takes 6-8 weeks for the ligament to solidly heal, and there is conditioning work that can help support it. To support NBA caliber play, longer than 6 weeks is the best recovery timeline.

BF: Should Davis be worried about repeating this injury again once he’s back?

Dr. Raizman: This injury does not put Davis at a higher risk for other similar injuries, but there is a risk of further injury if he returns too early, not allowing the finger to fully heal.

BF: Anything else to note about this injury?

Given how the Wizards are performing this season and their potential to get a high 2026 draft pick, it does not seem like they are in a major rush to get him back on the court. Again, since Davis could risk reinjury if he returns too early, the Wizards should hold off on playing him, ensuring that the injury is fully healed.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...y-interview-medical-doctor-washington-wizards

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards sign Alondes Williams to 10-day contract

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 7: Alondes Williams #31 of the Capital City Go-Go dribbles the ball during the game against the Birmingham Squadron on February 7, 2026 at CareFirst Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Washington Wizards have signed Alondes Williams to a 10-day contract, the team announced Monday.

Official: The Washington Wizards have signed Alondes Williams to a 10-Day Contract.

Read more: https://t.co/AZg0ERPSBr
Pres. by @RobinhoodApp pic.twitter.com/WoSCimuZq9

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 16, 2026

Williams, 26, has averaged 20.2 points per game on 43.5% 3PT across 13 appearances with the Capital City Go-Go this season. The 6-foot-4 guard was recently named a G League All-Star.

The Wake Forest product is an efficient 3-point shooter with a score-first mindset. He recently dropped 40 points on 62% FG in the Go-Go’s 122-116 loss to the Birmingham Squadron on Feb. 7.

The Wizards have signed Alondes Williams to a 10-day contract, the team announced today.

The 6-foot-4 guard recently dropped 40 points on 62% FG with the Capital City Go-Go.

Intriguing signing who should get minutes with the Wiz.
( via @nbagleague)pic.twitter.com/OTarbxN7XY

— Greg Finberg (@GregFinberg) February 16, 2026

Washington’s roster now sits at 13 standard NBA contracts, three two-way contracts and two 10-day deals (Williams and Kadary Richmond).

The Wizards return from the All-Star break at 7 p.m. Thursday against the Indiana Pacers.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...5/wizards-add-alondes-williams-on-10-day-deal

 

[Washington Wizards]

Will there be a 2026 WNBA season at all?

BROOKLYN, NY - SEPTEMBER 9: Kiki Iriafen #44 and Sonia Citron #22 of the Washington Mystics smiles during the game against the New York Liberty on September 9, 2025 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

In early February, we would normally write about which Washington Mystics players re-sign, which players go elsewhere and what trades happen. This offseason was supposed to be the biggest offseason ever. And it is. But to this point, it’s mostly because of the CBA negotiations between the WNBA and the WNBPA where there hasn’t been much progress. Or at least enough.

New York Liberty (and former longtime Washington Mystics) guard Natasha Cloud recently had an Instagram live where she spoke about the negotiations. It’s NSFW, but in short she made claims that the WNBA team owners claim they’re losing money while franchise valuations are going up (and there’s also league expansion). Also, WNBA players are looking for a much smaller share of revenue — Cloud didn’t specify but reports say around 30 percent until very recently — while NBA players get 50.

Tash speaks on CBA negotiations… pay the players fr! pic.twitter.com/AXYbwKSod0

— Just for fun ABOLISH ICE (@justforshowss) February 17, 2026

Now, since then, there are some updates. Yesterday, Alexa Philippou of ESPN wrote that the WNBPA countered by making some concessions requesting revenue sharing of 27.5 percent overall and a less than $9.5 million salary cap in 2026. The WNBPA also relaxed some demands on team housing, especially for players who are on shorter term contracts. The WNBA also gave some concessions to the players where teams will now get two developmental player spots, which allow for team rosters to be higher than 11 or 12.

If you think that the WNBA is accepting the WNBPA’s counterproposal, nope. Here is a statement the league had from Philippou’s article:

The Players Association’s latest proposal remains unrealistic and would cause hundreds of millions of dollars of losses for our teams,” the statement said. “We still need to complete two Drafts [a two-team expansion draft and college draft] and free agency before the start of training camp and are running out of time. We believe the WNBA’s proposal would result in a huge win for current players and generations to come.

My hope is that the two sides still aren’t far apart from getting the offseason started and a 2026 WNBA season from happening. I also do not think that the WNBA wants to lock out the players right before a new media deal happens. That said, WNBA players, unlike their NBA counterparts can play in alternative American leagues like Unrivaled and Athletes Unlimited. They can play in Europe where they can and still make more money than they would in America.

And the WNBPA authorized their executive committee to call a strike last December. There have been reports saying that if there is no WNBA CBA by mid February (and we are at the point now), then the 2026 WNBA season will likely be delayed. After all, there needs to be an expansion draft, free agency, and then a college draft before the 2026 WNBA season starts in early May.

But the players have been reluctant to give many concessions and the concessions they gave weren’t enough for the WNBA to say, “let’s finish a deal.” Many WNBA fans on social media are very pro-player like sports fans are. And because WNBA players can play elsewhere and make similar money, it wouldn’t shock me to see a strike. Perhaps one that COULD (and I’m just saying COULD) last the entire 2026 season. If that happens, the WNBA will be damaged at best like the NHL after the 2004-05 season was cancelled after a lockout. Or at worst, it could be in jeopardy like some league haters say on social media.

So my question to you all is this. Do you see a 2026 WNBA season happening at all? And furthermore, what would a strike mean for the WNBA’s future and its the players? Let us know in the comments below.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/community-bulletin-board/68154/2026-wnba-season-will-it-happen

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards vs. Pacers preview: Washington hosts Indiana in tanktastic matchup

Dec 14, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Washington Wizards forward Tristan Vukcevic (00) shoots the ball while Indiana Pacers center Jay Huff (32) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Washington Wizards open their post-All-Star campaign with the first of a back-to-back set against the Indiana Pacers.

Game info​

When: Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7:00 p.m. ET

Where: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.

How to watch: Monumental Sports Network, League Pass

Injuries: For the Wizards, Trae Young (knee, quad), Anthony Davis (hand, groin), Cam Whitmore (shoulder), Alex Sarr (hamstring), and D’Angelo Russell (not with team) are out.

For the Pacers, Aaron Nesmith (lumbar), Micah Potter (ankle), TJ McConnell (hamstring), Quenton Jackson (G League) are questionable, while Ivica Zubac (ankle), Pascal Siakam (personal), Obi Toppin (foot), Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles), and Johnny Furphy (knee) are out.

What to watch for​

The Wizards and Pacers begin a back-to-back set Thursday that bears massive implications in the battle to the bottom. The 15-40 Pacers have one win more than the 14-39 Wizards, who entered the All-Star break with the second-worst record in the NBA.

While a split of the two games appears likely, Washington could potentially cement their place in the bottom four with a pair of losses against Indiana. Inversely, the Pacers would fall below the Wizards if the latter takes both ends of the back-to-back.

The Pacers are coming off back-to-back wins over the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets, while the Wiz Kids have lost their last three contests against the Nets, Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...ashington-hosts-indiana-in-tanktastic-matchup

 

[Washington Wizards]

Should the NBA have a tournament or other measures to determine the top picks in the draft?

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 14: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver speaks at a press conference during 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome on February 14, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the GettyImages License Agreement. (Photo by Ryan Sirius Sun/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Currently, the Washington Wizards are one of the worst teams in the NBA standings. It is no secret that they are trying to get a high pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Meanwhile, the NBA itself is looking to deter teams from tanking for long periods of time. One possible idea of it is by creating a tournament among lottery teams where the winner of the tournament gets the top pick in the draft.

DEVELOPING: The NBA is discussing creating a tournament among lottery teams to determine draft order in order to stop tanking.

(via @ShamsCharania, h/t @flasportsbuzz)

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 13, 2026

TrillBroDude, SB Nation’s NBA “Feed” administrator, originally wrote a post last week which had some good feedback. In particular, Gaboshyn had a solid comment which I will quote an excerpt below.

As far as I can tell, the NBA is discussing these three actions:

• Limiting Draft Pick Protections: The league is looking to limit protections on traded first-round picks to only top-four or top-14 (and higher), eliminating the “middle” protections that encourage teams to lose just enough to land in a specific, protected spot.
• Prohibiting Back-to-Back Top-Four Picks: A proposal to stop teams from drafting in the top four in consecutive years, which would reduce the incentive for multi-year “tank-athons”.
• Locking Lottery Positions Early: The NBA is considering locking in lottery positions based on the standings as of March 1. This would prevent teams from dropping in the standings—and increasing their lottery odds—by sitting players in the final month of the season.

It’s clear that the NBA wants to curb tanking to the extent possible. And here’s my take on a tournament, draft protections, etc.

• On a tournament: The worst team in the NBA will be among the least talented as well. I don’t see a tournament being fair to those teams who will likely have a lower pick and get punished for being bad AND not have the talented enough to win either.
• Draft pick protections on trades: This is a fair move to make.
• Prohibiting back-to-back Top 4 picks: I think Top 4 may be a bit too restrictive. But I can see teams being prohibited from a Top 2 pick for consecutive years.
• Locking lottery positions early: Locking the positions by a certain date sounds good in theory, but then teams that are looking to tank will tank even harder in the first several months of the season. Not sure the records of such teams will improve very much after Mar. 1 or whatever arbitrary date they settle on.

I liked the responses from the Feed post and provided some more thoughts. Anyway, do you have more opinions on this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/community-bulletin-board/68165/nba-anti-tanking-measures-thoughts

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards vs. Pacers final score: Washington holds off Indiana, 112-105

Feb 19, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Bub Carrington (7) advances the ball as Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) defends during the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

The Washington Wizards emerged victorious 112-105 over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday in the battle of the East’s bottom feeders at Capital One Arena.

In a game with massive draft lottery implications, the Wizards took control for most of the contest. After a back-and-forth first quarter, Washington closed out the first half with a 17-6 run, taking a 59-47 advantage into the break. Tristan Vukcevic paced the Wiz with all 12 of his points coming before halftime.

Bilal Coulibaly came out motivated to start the second half, scoring or assisting on Washington’s first 11 points to help his team take a 17-point lead — the largest of the game. He also completed a pretty sweet pick-six for a slam.

BC startin' Q3 off with a BANG pic.twitter.com/nVjD8puVbu

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 20, 2026

The Pacers battled back with a 24-9 run to get within two points. A strong close to the quarter from the Wizards’ bench mob brought the lead back to 88-80 heading into the final period. Jaden Hardy, Alondis Williams, and Kadary Richmond all gave fans a glimpse of what they can do.

Washington nearly snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, as Indiana retook the lead midway through the fourth quarter with a 17-6 wave. But the Wizards countered with a 14-0 stretch to seal the victory, buoyed by some big shots from Bub Carrington and Anthony Gill.

Bench was LOVIN' this AG three pic.twitter.com/BbMl41EmwV

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) February 20, 2026

Seven different players scored in double figures in this one. Carrington, Gill, Kadary Richmond, and Jaden Hardy all tied for the team lead with 13 apiece.

The Wizards and Pacers do it all again Friday, with the loser leaving with the crown for the worst record in the East.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...al-score-washington-holds-off-indiana-112-105

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards vs. Pacers preview: Washington hosts Indiana in back-to-back

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - NOVEMBER 28: Alexandre Sarr #20 of the Washington Wizards shoots the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers during the 2025-26 Emirates Cup on November 28, 2025 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Washington Wizards host the Indiana Pacers again tonight

Game info​

When: Friday, Feb. 19 at 7:00 p.m. ET

Where: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.

How to watch: Monumental Sports Network, League Pass

Injuries: For the Wizards, Trae Young (knee, quad), Anthony Davis (hand, groin), Cam Whitmore (shoulder), Alex Sarr (hamstring), and D’Angelo Russell (not with team) are out.

For the Pacers, Aaron Nesmith (lumbar), Micah Potter (ankle), TJ McConnell (hamstring), Quenton Jackson (G League) are questionable, while Ivica Zubac (ankle), Pascal Siakam (personal), Obi Toppin (foot), Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles), and Johnny Furphy (knee) are out.

What to watch for​

The Wizards will host the Pacers for the second straight day. Washington drew first blood last night and will have another opportunity to make it 2-for-2. In games where the Wizards are playing teams that are also doing poorly in the standings, it is not a bad thing to see them win here and there. This is one of those times.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...ngton-wizards-indiana-pacers-nba-game-preview

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards vs. Pacers final score: Washington wins second straight, 131-118

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 19: Alondes Williams #31 of the Washington Wizards celebrates after a play against the Indiana Pacers during the second half at Capital One Arena on February 19, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Washington Wizards defeated the Indiana Pacers, 131-118 on Friday night at Capital One Arena.

This game began as one where the Wizards were losing for much of the first half, even into the second. The Wizards were losing by as many as 15 points at one point in the second quarter. But in the fourth quarter, Washington shot over 70 percent from the field, forced 7 turnovers and scored 11 points off of them and ultimately came up with the win.

Alondes Williams scored 11 of his 25 points off the bench to lead the Wizards to victory. He was also the leading scorer overall. Sharife Cooper also added 18 points, also off the bench for Washington.

For the Pacers, Jay Huff led with 22 points.

The Wizards’ next game is on Sunday against the Charlotte Hornets. Tip off is at 6 p.m. ET. At least for now since there is a chance of a snowstorm. See you then.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...hington-wizards-indiana-pacers-nba-game-recap

 

[Washington Wizards]

Wizards sign Tristan Vukcevic to three-year deal

The Washington Wizards are signing Tristan Vukcevic to a three-year, $9 million standard NBA contract, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The Washington Wizards are signing two-way center Tristan Vukcevic to a new three-year, $9 million deal, sources tell ESPN. Team option in third season. The Wizards and the 7-footer's agent, Jason Ranne of Wasserman, reached the new contract Saturday. pic.twitter.com/hMnsnEctCB

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 21, 2026

The third year will be a team option, per ESPN.

The 7-foot forward was on an expiring two-way contract that had just 15 NBA games remaining before reaching the 50-game limit.

Vukcevic has averaged 7.9 points and 2.7 rebounds on 47.8% FG in 35 appearances with the Wizards this season.

After Washington dealt Marvin Bagley III to the Dallas Mavericks at the trade deadline, Vukcevic stepped into a backup role behind Alex Sarr and has started the last two games in Sarr’s absence.

When Sarr and Anthony Davis are healthy and form Washington’s starting frontcourt, Vukcevic projects as the team’s backup center entering the 2026-27 campaign.

The Wizards are signing F Leaky Black to fill their open two-way spot. Black, 26, has spent the last two seasons with the Capital City Go-Go. He’s averaged 10.9 points and 6.3 rebounds in 14 appearances this season.

Washington’s two-way spots are as follows:

1. Jamir Watkins
2. Sharife Cooper
3. Leaky Black.

Source: https://www.bulletsforever.com/wash...ards-sign-tristan-vukcevic-to-three-year-deal