Wizards at Magic Discussion

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 12: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket as Tristan da Silva #23 of the Orlando Magic defends in the first half at the Kia Center on March 12, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Wizards are 3-3 despite an inconsistent first six games. They’ve won two games against inferior opponents, lost two games against superior opponents and split two contests with the Charlotte Hornets.

The true Wizards will reveal themselves over the next eight games in which they play seven 2026 playoff teams — the lone non-playoff opponent a talented Indiana Pacers squad. That stretch begins tonight in Orlando against a tough but depleted Magic group without Paolo Banchero or Jalen Suggs.

Orlando’s weak spot is its interior defense, which ranks 18th in opponent paint points per game. The Wizards rank fifth in paint points per game (52.3), so look for Brian Keefe to feed Anthony Davis in the post and get AJ Dybantsa going downhill.

Washington’s Achilles heel has been its rebounding, which ranks 28th in the NBA. Monday presents a get-right game against a Magic squad that ranks 26th in rebounding.

WAS: Alex Sarr (knee soreness), Justin Champagnie (foot surgery), Anthony Gill (back spasms), Tristan Vukcevic (hip impingement), Jamir Watkins (ACL tear) are OUT.

ORL: Paolo Banchero (ankle), Jalen Suggs (knee), Anthony Black (ankle), Jonathan Isaac (knee), Izaiyah Nelson (ankle), Noah Penda (hamstring) are OUT.

PG: Trae Young

SG: AJ Dybantsa

SF: Kyshawn George

PF: Anthony Davis

C: Deandre Ayton

Opponent: Orlando Magic

Tip-off: 7:30 p.m.

Location: Kia Center

TV: Monumental Sports Network

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

You can chat about the game in the comments below!