Bucks Set to Open Post-Giannis Era Against Wizards

The Washington Wizards open the 2026–27 season at home against the Milwaukee Bucks after major offseason changes. Milwaukee traded Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miami for Tyler Herro and other players and hired Taylor Jenkins to replace Doc Rivers; the Bucks are beginning a rebuild. Washington is looking to improve after a 17–65 season, with Trae Young and Anthony Davis among its revamped core. No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa is expected to miss the opener with an ankle sprain, and Jamir Watkins and Tristan Vukčević are also out; Bilal Coulibaly or Tre Johnson could fill Dybantsa’s starting role. Rookie Nate Ament is Milwaukee’s only listed injury absence. The game is scheduled for Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET at Capital One Arena.