In a sport filled with horrendous teams, the Wizards stand out. Over the past three seasons, Washington has racked up an abysmal 68-178 record. Only the Hornets have been worse during that time. After a summer filled with moves, could the times be changing in D.C.? Let’s break down the new-look Wizards and their chances at an improved 2025-26 campaign.
Washington’s win total is set at 20.5 on DraftKings Sportsbook, the Eastern Conference’s lowest mark.
If you’re interested in seeing any of the other NBA teams’ projected win totals, check out DKN‘s master list of the full 2025-2026 NBA projected win totals.
Washington Wizards 2025-2026 projected win total
The biggest headline for the Wizards this summer was a blockbuster trade sending Jordan Poole to New Orleans. In return, the Pelicans sent back CJ McCollum. The 33-year-old’s best days are behind him, but he should serve a key role on an otherwise inexperienced roster. Last season, the guard averaged 21.1 points, 3.8 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He’ll be joined by three-time All-Star Khris Middleton and former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, both expected to start the season in Washington.
While this club needed some experience, they’re still in the midst of a rebuild. The most promising youngster in D.C. is Tre Johnson, selected sixth overall in this year’s NBA Draft. As a member of the Texas Longhorns last season, the guard notched 19.9 points per game on 42.7% shooting. For a Wizards club that averaged the fourth-fewest points in basketball (108.0), finding impact scorers is a priority.
Johnson has the most star potential, but there are several other intriguing pieces on this roster. The biggest name in that regard is Alex Sarr, last season’s second-overall pick. It was an up-and-down rookie season for the Frenchman. Terrific defensive skills (1.5 BLK) were often overshadowed by poor shooting efficiency (39.4 FG%). A modest improvement on offense would go a long way in helping the center become a two-way force. Wing Bilal Coulibaly had moments of greatness last season, while second-year pros Kyshawn George and Bub Carrington are both part of Washington’s long-term plans.
Washington Wizards projected win total: Best bets, predictions
Washington Wizards over 20.5 wins (-115)
Is this the most talented Wizards squad since the days of Bradley Beal and John Wall? Maybe, even with plenty of players on dramatically different timelines. Granted, aging veterans could go a long way in helping those unproven youngsters get more comfortable in the NBA. A dramatic upgrade on last season’s 18-64 unit is unlikely, but reaching 21 wins? At such a low number, Washington is worth consideration for most NBA futures bettors.
