Why Wizards Can Expect Big Year from Tristan Vukcevic

As the Washington Wizards continue to rebuild and evaluate young talent, one name many people should keep a close eye on this season is Tristan Vukcevic. After spending much of last year with the Capital City Go-Go in the G-League, Vukcevic is primed for a breakout year on the main roster, and the signs are all pointing in the right direction. We should be expecting a big season from the young big man.

Tristan Vukcevic says playing with Nikola Jokic at EuroBasket really helped him develop his maturity 👀

“Seeing how he practices and how he plays really helped me — and IQ, like how to read the game, especially because we play the same position.” pic.twitter.com/EWx5y1h3Ic
— Bijan Todd (@bijan_todd) October 6, 2025

In the G-League, Vukcevic got valuable minutes and in-game reps, allowing him to sharpen his skills and adjust to the speed and physicality of the American game. His time in the G-League wasn’t just a developmental stint. No, it laid the groundwork for an impressive call-up to the Wizards late last season. When given the opportunity, he showed noticeable improvement and delivered solid performances, flashing his potential as a stretch big with a high basketball IQ who may have reminded many of the Hall of Famer, Pau Gasol.

Denver Nuggets Nikola Jokic — Mar 15, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) watches as center Nikola Jokic (15) prepares to shoot the ball in the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

This summer, the Wizards doubled down on their belief in Vukcevic by bringing him back on a new deal. It’s a move that makes sense. With a roster that lacks depth and size in the frontcourt, Vukcevic is expected to take on a bigger role. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and provide length on defense fits a glaring need for the Wizards.

Beyond his G-League and NBA experience, Vukcevic spent the offseason training and competing with Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic during FIBA play. That experience may prove invaluable. Vukcevic himself said, “Seeing how [Jokic] practices and how he plays really helped me — and IQ, like how to read the game, especially because we play the same position.”

Learning from a two-time MVP and one of the smartest big men to ever play the game of basketball could accelerate Vukcevic’s development. With valuable reps under his belt, mentorship from Jokic, and a clear opportunity in Washington’s rotation, Vukcevic is set up for a big year. Don’t be surprised if he becomes one of the Wizards’ breakout players in the 2025-26 season.

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