Gilbert Arenas urged the Washington Wizards to trade Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Arenas argued the veteran stars must leave to clear space for AJ Dybantsa.

The Wizards hold the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Arenas believes Dybantsa needs the full spotlight to succeed immediately.

During the June 2 episode of Gil’s Arena, Arenas said, “The reason I say that is you are the number one pick, and you have the personality. You are a star, and since you are the star, I need you to take over instantly."

"So I don’t need any other ex-stars or anybody who wants to still be a star there. So I need full spotlight. I’m just saying I need full spotlight on you.”

The Wizards finished last season with a 17-65 record. That was the worst mark in the NBA.

During the last trade deadline, the front office had acquired Trae Young and Anthony Davis in blockbuster moves. 

The situation is ironic because Arenas previously supported the acquisitions. At that time, Arenas had praised the trades for Young and Davis as excellent moves. Yet, his current position suggests a rookie-first reset that ignores those recent acquisitions.

Arenas believes elite prospects reach their potential faster when handed the keys immediately. He expressed concerns about veterans competing for shots during close games.

According to Arenas, Washington already features established stars in Young and Davis. These players expect the ball in their hands and need star treatment. 

This means including AJ Dybantsa could prove far more complicated. Trading them now might create flexibility and draft picks. 

Washington needs a fresh and exciting identity. Arenas feels Dybantsa has the personality to carry that burden right away. Yet around the league, some rebuilding projects suggest young stars may not actually need complete isolation to find success.

Past Draft Picks Show Elite Talent Can Grow More With Veteran Help

The San Antonio Spurs have proved that you do not always need to clear the roster to draft a young star. They drafted Victor Wembanyama in 2023, but did not clear out their established players. Instead, they built around a flexible young group. 

Another recent example is Dylan Harper of the San Antonio Spurs. He played alongside veteran guard De’Aaron Fox. Harper credited the ninth-year pro for his adjustment.

He even called Fox his "uncle" and "big brother" in interviews. Fox guided him on game reads, pace, and off-court preparation.

Harper played 69 games and averaged 11.8 points and 3.6 assists in about 22 minutes per night.

The NBA adjustment brings challenges with game speed, travel schedules, defensive schemes, and media pressure. Veterans provide leadership and daily professional habits. They also teach shot creation and defensive reads. 

Cooper Flagg is a perfect example. The Dallas Mavericks took him with the top pick in 2025. He won Rookie of the Year and now averages around 21 points per game as a two-way star. He developed in a structured environment rather than an empty roster. 

Which path should the front office take to build a winning team? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Utsav Sinha

Edited by

Koushik Biswas