Wizards weighing lineup options with AJ Dybantsa out for opener

The Wizards will have to wait for AJ Dybantsa’s debut. In the meantime, coach Brian Keefe has a starting lineup decision to make.

The No. 1 overall pick will miss Wednesday’s season opener against the Bucks because of an ankle injury suffered in the preseason finale against the Pelicans. Keefe said Dybantsa will be considered day-to-day after the opener, according to Josh Robbins of The Athletic.

That leaves an opportunity for another young player to step into a larger role alongside Trae Young.

Bilal Coulibaly and Tre Johnson are the most likely replacements, Bryson Akins of Wizards On SI writes, with each offering something different. Keefe has not announced his choice.

Coulibaly would give Washington more size and perimeter defense. The fourth-year wing is also entering an important season after the rookie extension deadline passed without a new agreement. He’s headed toward restricted free agency next summer.

Johnson offers more shooting and could benefit from Young’s ability to draw defenders and find teammates away from the ball. Starting him would give the Wizards another outside threat, though Akins views Coulibaly as the more likely choice because of his defensive advantages.

Justin Champagnie is another possibility. His ability to contribute around the basket, move the ball and defend could make him useful in a lineup that already has established scorers. Akins also mentions Bub Carrington as an option, though neither is presented as the favorite.

For Washington, the immediate task is filling Dybantsa’s spot without asking someone else to duplicate his game. Coulibaly could help with defensive assignments, while Johnson could provide more spacing for Young and the frontcourt.

The Wizards had hoped to begin getting those answers with Dybantsa on the floor. His debut will have to come later, with no firm return date announced.