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.

Three Washington Wizards rookies Tre Johnson, Will Riley and Jamir Watkins spent the offseason away from the court, volunteering at a back-to-school event at William Ramsay Elementary. They handed out supplies, books and lunches and connected with local kids, signaling a market-friendly, community-first approach in their debut league year. The same trio later joined the Nationals for a ceremonial first pitch as Washington hosted Oakland, blending basketball ascent with cross-sport branding.

On the court, Johnson led the group in NBA Summer League, posting 19.5 points per game with 3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and a steal on a 45.5% clip from three across two games, capped by a 21-point effort on July 13. Riley logged two Desert appearances at 10.5 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists, while Watkins averaged 11 points, five rebounds and 4.2 steals with 1.6 assists over five games on 33.3% field shooting. Their offseason activities foreshadow a fast acclimation path and potential fantasy upside if they secure minutes behind established Wizards wings.

The 2025 NBA Summer League concluded in Las Vegas, showcasing the potential of various players, particularly those from Illinois. Terrence Shannon Jr. shone for the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 22.7 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists in just three games, making a strong case for increased role next season. Quincy Guerrier struggled with limited minutes on the Toronto Raptors, leaving his future uncertain. Coleman Hawkins had an up-and-down performance for the Golden State Warriors, but showed flashes of versatility. Will Riley found success with impactful games for the Washington Wizards before injury sidelined him.

Meanwhile, Kasparas Jakucionis and Dain Dainja, both with the Miami Heat, exhibited potential with standout performances but face competition for roster spots. Jakucionis had a breakout game scoring 24 points, while Dainja's consistent play could lead to a G League assignment. The Summer League has proven crucial for these players as they look to solidify their places in the NBA.

The Washington Wizards have made a strategic move by acquiring the draft rights to former Illinois wing Will Riley, as part of a pick swap with the Utah Jazz during the recent NBA Draft. Although the Wizards officially selected Walter Clayton Jr. with the No. 18 pick, they later traded for Riley, who was picked at No. 21. General Manager Will Dawkins highlighted Riley's fit within their profile, emphasizing his evolution as a player over the past season.

Riley’s transition from being a supporting player at Illinois to a key contributor is notable, especially as he took on more responsibilities due to injuries in his final collegiate season. The Wizards are looking to leverage his size and versatility, as they have a mix of experienced veterans like Khris Middleton and Malcolm Brogdon alongside younger talents such as Corey Kispert. The team anticipates Riley will enhance their wing depth while showcasing his potential both at the Summer League and beyond.