Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa had their first battle as NBA players at Summer League, as the Washington Wizards defeated the Utah Jazz 92-88. Dybantsa finished with 27 points and seven rebounds. Peterson scored 24 points.
During the game, it’s apparent that the top two picks of this past draft are primed to take the league by storm over these next few years.
Dybantsa has about as quick of a first step you can have for a 6-foot-9 forward. He’s also so acrobatic, powerful and graceful, which should create for some beautiful finishes throughout the course of his career.
Dybantsa still needs to work on his 3-point shot, but that’s something that can be taught. What can’t be taught is the physique he’s built and all of the other intangibles he has that could make him one of the best finishers at the rim and midrange threats the second he steps onto an NBA hardwood.
Peterson has drawn a ton of comparisons to some of the best shooting guards to ever play, namely Kobe Bryant. The eye test shows that he’s comfortable driving downhill, getting to his spots and going to his signature floater.
Peterson is already a threat to launch it from deep, whether it’s off the catch-and-shoot or dribble pullups. He’s also shown a solid ability to make plays for his teammates.
These two guys are going to be linked to each other for the rest of their careers after being the first two picks in a loaded draft class. Peterson is well aware of that.
“Ball is first,” Peterson said. “So I'm a grinder. Like I said, Kobe is my guy, and I'm inspired by him. So I just try to think, what would Kobe do right now? He'd get drafted and move on and try to go be the best possible. So that's what I'm going to go do. I see a guy that went No. 1 on the screen there right now [AJ Dybantsa]. So I'm extra motivated.”
Dybantsa certainly has the physical edge over Peterson and has more of a chance to develop into a legitimate two way force, so it’s hard to blame Washington for making him the No. 1 overall pick.
However, Peterson could give Dybantsa a run for his money if he learns to score at all three levels at a high level and elevate the performance of each of his teammates.
