Anthony Davis has sent a clear warning to the rest of the NBA about the Washington Wizards' defensive potential. Speaking to reporters Network, the star forward highlighted the formidable frontcourt partnership he's forming with young center Alex Sarr. This comes as the Wizards look to rebound from a difficult end to their season, having lost their last five games, including a 130-117 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers on April 12, 2026.
What did Anthony Davis say about the Wizards?
Davis was direct about the team's defensive ceiling. "I've always felt like I've always been very successful with another big," Davis said. He pointed to Sarr's unique skills. "And the good thing about Alex is that he can space the floor. And on the defensive end, it's going to be insane."
He detailed the specific advantages. Davis mentioned pick-and-roll defense, switching onto guards, and rim protection as key strengths. "I think he's second in the league right now," Davis added, praising Sarr's defensive impact. The veteran's confidence stems from his belief in the roster's construction and his own fit within it.
How does the new Wizards frontcourt work?
The pairing allows Davis to return to his natural power forward spot. He spent nearly a decade as a center after joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. With Sarr manning the middle, Davis gets elite defensive help in the paint.
Alex Sarr averaged 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game during the 2025-2026 NBA season. He served as the team's defensive anchor for the past two years. Davis, meanwhile, put up 20.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game over 20 contests with the Dallas Mavericks last season before a hand injury.
Davis was traded to Washington in February but has not yet played for the team. His arrival, combined with Sarr's development, creates a potentially dominant interior presence. You can track the team's defensive progress on our stats page throughout the season.
What are the Wizards' goals for next season?
Anthony Davis has made winning his immediate priority. In an interview with the Associated Press, he dismissed outside perceptions of the franchise. "When the trade happened and I got here, I've said this place is not what people make it seem," Davis stated.
He credited the organization's culture. "It's a sign of the organization, the coaching staff, the players, everybody here. I want to be able to have fun where I am." Davis understands the challenge ahead, referencing his experience on losing teams.
The Wizards won only 19 games last season and haven't reached the playoffs since 2021. Their recent form shows the mountain to climb, with an 0-5 record to close the year. But Davis believes the mix of youth and experience can change the narrative.
Who else is part of the Wizards' new core?
The roster transformation extends beyond the frontcourt. The backcourt will be led by former All-Star Trae Young. On the wing, the 2026 top overall draft pick AJ Dybantsa is slated to be the starting forward.
This new core gives Washington a chance to end a long postseason drought. Competing in the stacked Eastern Conference won't be easy. Davis acknowledges the young talent but stresses the need to translate it into wins.
"I know we have a lot of young guys, but like I said, I mentioned it about the young guys, how talented they are." Davis explained. He concluded with a realistic note. "But I also understand I've been in this league a long time." The team's upcoming schedule, which you can view on our schedule page, will be their first real test.
