The Washington Wizards have been labeled the NBA's biggest dark horse for the upcoming season by former player Darren Collison. This bold prediction follows a major offseason featuring major trades and the drafting of top prospect AJ Dybantsa, aiming to reverse a tough end to last season that saw them lose their final five games, including a 130-117 defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers on April 12, 2026.
Collison, speaking on NBA TV, argued the league should be wary of Washington's potential. He believes the team now has all the components needed for a significant leap. "Washington Wizards. I know I sound crazy right now." Collison said. "He has a lot to prove."
The core of Collison's argument rests on a new star trio. He identified Trae Young, Anthony Davis, and rookie AJ Dybantsa as the leaders who will drive the team forward. Young is seen as the primary catalyst, entering the season with a point to prove after a year limited by injury. Davis brings an elite defensive presence that should anchor the paint.
Collison emphasized that Davis's rim protection will relieve pressure on the highly-touted Dybantsa. "AJ doesn't have to be the guy, AJ is gonna be an added asset," he noted. This allows the rookie to develop without carrying the full offensive load from day one. The Wizards also fortified their roster with experienced veterans Deandre Ayton and Khris Middleton, adding size and championship pedigree off the bench.
Beyond the star names, Collison praised the team's overall depth, which he linked directly to potential success. The roster blends promising youth with proven veterans. Young players like Tre Mann, Bub Carrington, Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, and Will Riley provide athleticism and upside.
Justin Champagnie also fits into this energetic young core. "And I always feel that the teams with the most depth have the most success," Collison added.
Trae Young fully embraces the leadership role and the underdog narrative. In an interview, he expressed strong motivation to return the Wizards to relevance. "When you've been to where I've been to, and you know the type of player you are, you know what group you should be in," said Young, a former conference finals participant.
He finds fuel in being overlooked. "And you're not being talked about it, that's motivating as a player..." Young hinted at a more versatile approach this season, working on aspects of his game beyond scoring and playmaking. "I don't even have to tell you, you'll see it. Everything," he stated.
The path won't be easy. The Wizards finished last season on a five-game skid, with losses including a 140-117 result against the Miami Heat on April 10 and a 119-108 defeat to the Chicago Bulls on April 9. They must climb out of the Eastern Conference cellar where they won only 19 games last year.
The conference is loaded with contenders like the New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, and Philadelphia 76ers. Integrating new stars and establishing chemistry will be an immediate test for the coaching staff. Fans can track their progress and view the full upcoming schedule on our schedule page. Success hinges on health, particularly for Young and Davis, who combined for just five appearances in Washington last season. If they stay on the court, this dark horse could start galloping sooner than many expect.
