Bilal Coulibaly underwent surgery on a right-thumb ligament, a move that likely sidelines him at the start of the 2025-26 season. The 21-year-old No. 7 pick averaged 6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in Eurobasket, flashing development after a breakout sophomore year (12.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG). Washington’s brightest young core—Alex Sarr, Tre Johnson, Will Riley—now faces an early-season rise in responsibility, joined by Cam Whitmore and other first‑round hopefuls. Veteran help from CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton, plus a reshaped rotation after Poole’s move to New Orleans, keeps playoff odds distant ( +3000 ) but not impossible if the youth flourishes.

The Wizards’ 2023-24 and 2024-25 narratives converge: minimal recent wins, a hopeful pipeline, and a front office embracing youth with a veteran bridge. The injury compounds uncertainty around opening-night lineups, tempo, and scoring balance, but it also sets up late-season momentum if Coulibaly returns healthy and the rookies hit their marks. The margin remains thin, but the path to relevance for Washington stays open with the right development arc.

Luka Dončić delivered a triple-double (26 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists) as Slovenia beat Belgium 86-69 in EuroBasket play, marking the fourth such feat in the tournament’s history. The performance came as Slovenia needed a win to stay alive after two early losses, and Dončić continued to pace the team with elite per-game numbers through three games (about 33 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 9.7 APG, 3.3 SPG). The moment also underscored his status as a Lakers cornerstone after signing a three-year, $155 million extension, despite a knee scare and summer conditioning focus that included gluten-free dieting. Lakers execs showed public support by watching him in Europe, signaling confidence in his health and development as LeBron James’ future remains uncertain. Slovenia now eyes Iceland as it tries to climb out of the group.

The spotlight on Dončić contrasts with France’s depth, which features four NBA players on the roster (Risacher, Sarr, Coulibaly, Yabusele). The dynamic shapes early-season fantasy narratives: Dončić remains the clear fantasy centerpiece, while France’ cadre provides additional DFS intrigue. The mix of EuroBasket structure, international travel, and the Lakers’ long-term commitment makes this a pivotal stretch for Dončić’s fantasy and real-world value as the season approaches.

The Washington Wizards are gearing up for Summer League with an exciting roster that boasts seven first-round picks and eight players selected over the last two drafts. This platform offers young talents like Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 draft, a chance to gain valuable experience before the upcoming season.

Along with Sarr, rookies such as Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, A.J. Johnson, and Will Riley will be under the guidance of coach J.J. Outlaw, enhancing their skills against fellow young players. Outlaw’s recent coaching stint was bolstered by a diverse background, including a brief NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Wizards will take on teams like the Phoenix Suns, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Utah Jazz, promising an exciting week ahead.