Wizards Look to Stay Undefeated as Anthony Davis and Trae Young Face Kawhi Leonard’s Raptors
By Brian Hradsky
October 22, 2026
The Washington Wizards will look to build on an impressive season-opening victory when they host the Toronto Raptors on Friday night at Capital One Arena. Washington enters the matchup with a 1-0 record after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 128-116 behind an outstanding debut from Anthony Davis, while Toronto also opened its season with a convincing 135-92 victory over the Chicago Bulls. The game features two dramatically restructured Eastern Conference teams hoping to establish early momentum, with Trae Young and Davis leading Washington against Kawhi Leonard and Scottie Barnes. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern, with television coverage available on Monumental Sports Network.
Wizards Open Season With Impressive Victory Over Milwaukee
Washington entered the 2026-27 season with considerably higher expectations following an offseason focused on improving its veteran talent and developing young players. The Wizards delivered an encouraging opening performance Wednesday, overcoming an eight-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Milwaukee by 12 points. Davis scored 34 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in his first regular-season appearance for Washington, while Young contributed 20 points and 13 assists. The victory demonstrated the offensive potential of a roster that struggled to generate consistent results during the previous season.
The Wizards trailed 93-90 entering the fourth quarter before producing a decisive 21-4 scoring run that transformed the contest. Deandre Ayton provided an important dunk that gave Washington a 97-96 advantage, and the Wizards continued building their lead through aggressive offensive execution. Washington outscored Milwaukee 38-23 during the final period and finished the game shooting 52.3 percent from the field. The performance provided an encouraging beginning for head coach Brian Keefe and his restructured lineup.
The most impressive aspect of Washington’s victory was its ability to overcome poor three-point shooting. The Wizards made only six of 28 attempts from beyond the arc, connecting at a disappointing 21.4 percent. However, Washington compensated through effective interior scoring, aggressive drives and opportunities at the free-throw line. The Wizards will need a more balanced offensive performance against Toronto, particularly because the Raptors possess several versatile defenders capable of disrupting opposing attacks.
Anthony Davis Faces Another Major Frontcourt Challenge
Davis immediately established himself as Washington’s primary interior scoring threat during the season opener. The veteran forward-center connected on 11 of 20 field-goal attempts and converted 11 of 14 free throws while producing 34 points. His 12 rebounds helped Washington maintain a 44-41 advantage on the glass, and his presence forced Milwaukee to adjust its defensive approach throughout the contest. The Wizards will look for another productive performance from Davis against Toronto’s physical frontcourt.
The matchup against Barnes and Jakob Poeltl will provide a different challenge than Milwaukee presented Wednesday. Barnes brings exceptional defensive versatility, while Poeltl offers size and experience protecting the paint. Toronto can use different defensive combinations to challenge Davis and limit his opportunities near the basket. Washington must establish effective spacing and ball movement to prevent the Raptors from concentrating their defense exclusively on its veteran star.
Davis’ ability to draw fouls could become particularly important if Toronto attempts to defend aggressively around the rim. The Wizards attempted 41 free throws against Milwaukee, demonstrating their willingness to attack defenders rather than settling for perimeter shots. Davis accounted for 14 of those attempts and repeatedly created opportunities through his interior presence. Washington will look to maintain that approach while avoiding unnecessary turnovers against Toronto’s active defense.
Trae Young Must Control Tempo Against Raptors Defense
Young delivered an impressive playmaking performance against Milwaukee despite struggling with his outside shooting. The veteran guard finished with 20 points and 13 assists while committing only one turnover, demonstrating his ability to direct Washington’s offense efficiently. He also converted 12 of 16 free throws, helping the Wizards generate points when their perimeter shooting was ineffective. His decision-making will be particularly important against a Toronto defense that forced numerous turnovers during its opening victory.
Toronto’s combination of Barnes, Leonard and other athletic perimeter defenders creates challenges for opposing guards. The Raptors can pressure ball handlers, switch defensive assignments and disrupt passing lanes. Young will need to remain patient while identifying opportunities for Davis, Ayton and Washington’s perimeter scorers. Avoiding careless passes and maintaining offensive spacing should become important priorities.
Young also needs to improve his perimeter shooting after missing all six three-point attempts against Milwaukee. His ability to connect from long range can force defenders to extend their coverage and create additional space for Washington’s interior players. The Wizards will benefit if Young establishes his shooting rhythm early rather than relying primarily on free throws and passing. A more efficient scoring performance would make Washington’s offense considerably more difficult to defend.
Toronto Opens Season With Dominant Victory Over Chicago
The Raptors delivered one of the NBA’s most impressive opening-night performances Wednesday, defeating the Bulls 135-92 at Scotiabank Arena. Toronto established control immediately by scoring 43 points during the first quarter and building a 20-point advantage. The Raptors extended their lead to as many as 48 points before completing the 43-point victory. Their offensive production and defensive pressure demonstrated why Toronto enters the season with expectations of competing near the top of the Eastern Conference.
Leonard, Barnes and Immanuel Quickley each scored 23 points, giving Toronto three productive offensive leaders. RJ Barrett added 20 points as the Raptors received balanced scoring contributions from their starting lineup. Toronto also benefited from aggressive defense, forcing 27 Chicago turnovers and generating 15 steals. The Raptors converted those mistakes into transition opportunities, outscoring the Bulls 34-13 in fast-break points.
The performance was especially impressive because Toronto did not depend exclusively on exceptional three-point shooting. The Raptors connected on 32.3 percent of their attempts from beyond the arc but compensated through ball movement, defensive pressure and efficient scoring opportunities. Toronto recorded 31 assists and consistently created chances before Chicago could establish its half-court defense. Washington must be prepared for an opponent capable of generating offense through several different players and styles.
Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto With Championship Expectations
Leonard’s return to Toronto represents one of the most significant developments of the NBA offseason. The veteran forward helped lead the Raptors to their first championship in 2019 before departing for the Los Angeles Clippers. Toronto reacquired Leonard during the offseason, bringing back a player whose previous tenure remains one of the most memorable periods in franchise history. His presence gives the Raptors another established scorer and experienced defender alongside Barnes.
Leonard scored 23 points in his return against Chicago, adding six rebounds and two assists in approximately 24 minutes. Although he connected on only five of 17 field-goal attempts, he remained productive through free throws and aggressive offensive play. Toronto limited his minutes as he continued building conditioning, and the team’s substantial lead allowed its starters to rest during much of the fourth quarter. His workload against Washington will depend on the coaching staff’s assessment.
Washington must account for Leonard’s ability to score from the midrange, attack mismatches and defend multiple positions. His experience gives Toronto another player capable of influencing the game even when his shooting efficiency is below his usual standard. The Wizards will need disciplined defensive positioning and effective communication to prevent Leonard from creating favorable scoring opportunities. His matchup against Washington’s forwards could become one of the contest’s most important battles.
Scottie Barnes Provides Toronto With Versatility
Barnes has developed into one of Toronto’s most important players through his combination of scoring, rebounding, passing and defense. The 25-year-old forward earned NBA All-Defensive Second Team recognition following the 2025-26 season, when he recorded at least 100 steals and 100 blocks. His ability to defend several positions allows head coach Darko Rajakovic to use different defensive combinations. Barnes also contributes as an offensive playmaker, making him difficult to contain through conventional matchups.
Against Chicago, Barnes scored 23 points while adding six rebounds and five assists. His performance demonstrated his ability to contribute without dominating possession, particularly when playing alongside Leonard and Quickley. Barnes also helped establish Toronto’s defensive pressure, creating opportunities through active positioning and aggressive challenges. Washington must prevent him from turning defensive stops into easy transition baskets.
The Wizards could use several different defenders against Barnes, including Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George. Both players bring length and athleticism, giving Washington options when matching up against Toronto’s versatile forwards. However, Barnes’ ability to pass and attack the basket means Washington cannot focus exclusively on preventing his scoring. The Wizards must maintain defensive discipline throughout entire possessions.
Quickley and Barrett Add Offensive Depth
Quickley provided another outstanding performance during Toronto’s opener, scoring 23 points and distributing seven assists against Chicago. The veteran guard has developed into an important part of the Raptors’ offense through his shooting, ball handling and ability to create opportunities for teammates. His partnership with Leonard and Barnes gives Toronto several players capable of initiating possessions. Washington will need to limit his opportunities from beyond the arc while preventing him from creating easy looks for others.
Barrett added 20 points during the victory, demonstrating his ability to contribute within Toronto’s balanced offensive system. The Canadian forward remains an important scoring option because of his ability to attack the basket and finish through contact. His size and physicality could create challenges for Washington’s perimeter defenders. The Wizards will need to avoid allowing Barrett to establish favorable matchups near the basket.
Toronto’s offensive depth creates a difficult challenge because opponents cannot concentrate exclusively on one player. Leonard, Barnes, Quickley and Barrett all reached 20 points against Chicago, giving the Raptors multiple scoring options. Washington must emphasize communication and defensive rotations to prevent Toronto from generating easy opportunities. The ability to limit secondary scoring could become just as important as containing the Raptors’ leading players.
Washington’s Young Players Must Continue Contributing
The Wizards received encouraging performances from several younger players during their opening victory. George scored 18 points on eight-of-14 shooting while adding five rebounds and three assists. His ability to provide efficient secondary scoring helped Washington overcome its difficult perimeter shooting night. George will need to remain aggressive against Toronto’s experienced defenders.
Coulibaly also made an important contribution against Milwaukee, finishing with 11 points, four steals and two blocks. His defensive activity helped Washington generate additional possessions and establish momentum during the second half. The young forward could receive important assignments against Leonard, Barnes or Barrett during Friday’s contest. His ability to defend without committing unnecessary fouls will be especially valuable.
Bub Carrington added 10 points off the bench, while Ayton finished with 11 and provided the important fourth-quarter dunk that gave Washington the lead. Their contributions demonstrated that the Wizards have several players capable of supporting Davis and Young. Washington will need that depth against a Toronto team that can pressure opponents throughout the game. Maintaining offensive production when the starters rest could become a deciding factor.
AJ Dybantsa Ruled Out Against Toronto
Washington will again be without rookie forward AJ Dybantsa, the first overall selection in the 2026 NBA Draft. Dybantsa suffered a sprained left ankle during the Wizards’ preseason finale October 16 and missed Wednesday’s victory over Milwaukee. Keefe confirmed Thursday that the 19-year-old will also miss Friday’s matchup against Toronto. The injury remains classified as day-to-day, and Washington has not announced a specific return date.
Dybantsa entered the NBA with considerable expectations after averaging 25.5 points per game during his lone collegiate season at BYU. His scoring ability and athleticism are expected to become important parts of Washington’s long-term development. However, the Wizards have demonstrated that they can generate offense through their established veterans while allowing their top draft pick to recover. The coaching staff should continue prioritizing his health rather than rushing him into the lineup.
Washington’s injury report also lists Tristan Vukcevic as unavailable because of a hip injury, while Jamir Watkins remains out for the season with a knee injury. Toronto has listed rookie center Nate Bittle as out because of a foot injury. Both teams will need to manage their available personnel during the opening portion of the season. Final lineup decisions will be determined closer to Friday’s tipoff.
Rebounding and Turnovers Could Decide the Game
The matchup presents an interesting contrast between Washington’s interior strength and Toronto’s defensive pressure. The Wizards relied heavily on Davis and their frontcourt during the victory over Milwaukee, while the Raptors overwhelmed Chicago through aggressive defense and transition scoring. Washington’s ability to control rebounds could limit Toronto’s opportunities to generate additional possessions. However, the Wizards must also protect the basketball against a team that forced 27 turnovers in its opener.
Young’s performance against Milwaukee provides an encouraging example of the ball security Washington needs. He recorded 13 assists with only one turnover, allowing the Wizards to maintain offensive efficiency despite their shooting struggles. Toronto will attempt to disrupt that rhythm through pressure on the perimeter and active defensive rotations. Washington must avoid forcing passes into crowded areas and remain patient when attacking the Raptors’ defense.
The battle inside could also influence the outcome because Washington has Davis, Ayton and Alex Sarr available to challenge Toronto’s frontcourt. Poeltl provides the Raptors with an experienced center, while Barnes offers additional rebounding and defensive versatility. Washington should attempt to establish a physical presence near the basket and create second-chance opportunities. The Wizards must also prevent Toronto from generating uncontested transition baskets after missed shots or turnovers.
Both Teams Look to Improve to 2-0
Friday’s matchup gives both teams an opportunity to begin the season with consecutive victories against Eastern Conference opponents. Washington is attempting to establish a new competitive identity after finishing 17-65 during the previous campaign. Toronto enters the season following a 46-36 record and a playoff appearance, giving the Raptors a more established foundation. The contest will provide an early indication of how Washington’s restructured roster compares with an experienced conference opponent.
The Wizards will remain at Capital One Arena for the second consecutive game before beginning a three-game road trip Saturday against the Chicago Bulls. Washington’s early schedule provides opportunities to evaluate its chemistry against teams with different offensive and defensive approaches. Toronto’s aggressive defense will present a particularly important challenge after the Wizards relied on interior scoring against Milwaukee. A second consecutive victory would provide additional confidence for a franchise hoping to make substantial progress.
Toronto will also look to build on its dominant season opener before continuing its road schedule. The Raptors demonstrated their offensive depth and defensive versatility against Chicago, but Washington presents a different challenge with Davis and Young leading the attack. Rajakovic will need to prepare his team for a more experienced Wizards lineup than the one Toronto faced during previous seasons. Both teams have reasons for optimism heading into Friday’s contest.
MSB Take
Washington’s opening victory over Milwaukee was encouraging, but Friday’s matchup against Toronto should provide a more demanding test of the Wizards’ new roster. Davis demonstrated his ability to dominate offensively with 34 points and 12 rebounds, while Young supplied the playmaking necessary to keep Washington organized. However, the Wizards cannot expect to defeat strong opponents consistently while shooting just 21.4 percent from three-point range. Improving perimeter efficiency and maintaining disciplined ball movement will be essential against Toronto’s aggressive defense.
The Raptors present several difficult matchups because Leonard, Barnes, Quickley and Barrett can all generate offense. Toronto’s 43-point victory over Chicago demonstrated the team’s ability to overwhelm opponents through defensive pressure and balanced scoring. Washington must prevent the Raptors from creating easy transition opportunities while using its frontcourt size to establish an advantage around the basket. Coulibaly and George will also need strong defensive performances to support Davis and Young.
The biggest question is whether Washington can maintain the offensive execution it demonstrated during the second half against Milwaukee. The Wizards showed resilience by overcoming an eight-point deficit, but Toronto’s experienced defenders could make similar scoring runs more difficult. Davis and Young give Washington legitimate offensive weapons, while the team’s younger contributors provide additional depth. If the Wizards protect the basketball, control the rebounding battle and improve their outside shooting, they have an opportunity to secure another important home victory.
MSB Prediction: Washington Wizards 119, Toronto Raptors 116.
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