Washington Wizards guard Jamir Watkins has ACL surgery, sidelined for 2026‑27 season

Jamir Watkins, a 25‑year‑old former second‑round pick who appeared in 50 games as a rookie for the Washington Wizards, tore his left ACL in the NBA Summer League opener against the Utah Jazz on July 9, 2026. He underwent reconstructive knee surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan.

The injury is expected to keep Watkins out for the entire 2026‑27 season, removing a key perimeter defender from the Wizards' roster. The team is now considering options to fill the final guard spot, including free‑agent candidates such as Russell Westbrook and other veterans, as the loss alters their offseason plans.