Expectations for the 2026 NBA Draft grow as the event approaches, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday with kickoffs at 8 p.m. ET. The league scenario intensifies, with teams finalizing their strategies and potential trades.
The main doubt hangs over the first pick, where the Washington Wizards face a crucial decision between two great talents: AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson. The offseason has already seen significant movement with the trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Milwaukee Bucks, a deal that included the 13th pick in the draft and should drive more negotiations.
The projections presented are the result of conversations with NBA sources and evaluations of prospects throughout the season. It is important to emphasize that they do not represent personal rankings, but rather an overview of the likely course of the draft, with continuous adjustments until the first round.
Projections for the first round of the NBA draft
The decisive choice of the Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards have been completely secretive about their top pick. However, recent information points to Dybantsa as the most likely option, combining high potential with the team’s style of play. The news of Trae Young’s signing for four years and US$212 million by the Wizards, according to Shams Charania, directly impacts the decision. This long-term commitment reduces the chances of an ideal partnership with Peterson, who aspires to be a primary point guard.
The difference in talent between Peterson and Dybantsa is minimal, suggesting current circumstances could be decisive. Dybantsa’s ability to infiltrate and his unique physical attributes complement the Wizards’ roster. Teaming Dybantsa with Young would ease the pressure on the rookie to create offensive plays and allow his defensive potential to develop. Dybantsa has been seen as the favorite since the lottery draw in May. A 32-second video highlights AJ Dybantsa as one of the most promising names in the NBA draft.
Utah Jazz’s interest in new talent
Kansas guard/shooting guard Darryn Peterson confirmed he met with representatives of the Utah Jazz over the weekend, indicating mutual interest and a change in his initial stance of not visiting the team. Sources close to the Jazz have revealed a strong interest in Peterson throughout the process, and the general expectation is that the Utah team will choose the available player between Peterson and Dybantsa. His initial decision to only visit Washington reflected his confidence in being an early pick and his desire to be the first to be announced.
Peterson’s medical exams raised no major concerns, paving his path to a top-two pick. Despite a challenging season at Kansas, he was always considered a strong candidate for the No. 1 pick. With some doubts resolved, he is evaluated as a top offensive talent, with the potential to become one of the league’s top scorers. Peterson would be a significant addition to the Jazz, boosting the offense alongside Keyonte George in their quest for a playoff spot. Cameron Boozer is also highly rated, but the third pick is seen as his most likely destination. A 1 minute, 11 second video features Darryn Peterson, another top NBA draft talent.
Cameron Boozer’s arrival at the Grizzlies
Duke power forward/center Cameron Boozer should have a draft night without any major surprises. Sources indicate he visited Memphis last week, in addition to Chicago and Utah. Although the Utah Jazz considered him, the expectation is that the team will not let Dybantsa or Peterson slip away.
There is widespread confidence around the league about the Grizzlies’ interest in Boozer, given the Memphis front office’s analytical reputation and the Duke player’s productive track record in draft models. Boozer would represent a fresh start for the Grizzlies, especially with the possible departure of Ja Morant. His versatility on the perimeter makes him an intriguing partner for Zach Edey in the paint. Cameron Boozer’s 54-second NBA draft profile explores his strengths.
The Chicago Bulls bet on Caleb Wilson
North Carolina power forward Caleb Wilson had his only pre-draft visit with the Chicago Bulls, including an individual workout and meetings with the front office and newly hired coach Tiago Splitter. The Bulls are believed to be Wilson’s preferred destination, with him most likely to be available at the fourth pick.
Despite not having the same track record as the top three prospects, Wilson’s increased productivity at North Carolina has elevated his perception. His exceptional agility and enhanced energy make him a strong bet for a high-impact player in the NBA. Many see this pick as one of the least risky for Chicago. A 1 minute and 1 second video details Caleb Wilson’s NBA draft profile.
The Los Angeles Clippers seek reinforcements in the frame
From the fifth pick, with the LA Clippers, the second phase of the draft begins. The Clippers have been the target of trade rumors, with rival teams highlighting several options. Despite public signs of intention to maintain the choice, the situation is fluid. Illinois guard/shooting guard Keaton Wagler and Mikel Brown Jr. are the most likely candidates if the team holds its position.
Wagler is a strong option for the Clippers, complementing Darius Garland, who could step into the primary point guard role while Wagler develops. He only visited the Bulls and Clippers, canceling trips to Brooklyn and Sacramento, which suggests confidence in his position. Wagler is coveted by several teams, making him a potential trade target. Late interest in Darius Acuff Jr. has been noted, but the overlap with Garland would make that scenario unlikely. Keaton Wagler’s NBA Draft profile is featured in a 50-second video.
The Brooklyn Nets and the search for a talented point guard
The Brooklyn Nets represent a crucial turning point in the draft. If Keaton Wagler is available, he would be an excellent choice given his physical size and unselfish style. However, Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr. and Nate Ament are the top names being considered for this position. Brown gained momentum in workouts, and Brooklyn showed interest, with executives visiting him and inviting him to tryouts.
His physical size and skill set place him as one of the point guards with the greatest offensive potential in this second tier. He impressed in practice, displaying shooting range and footwork that dispelled concerns about his freshman season. Brown declined to visit Sacramento, suggesting confidence in other options. Ament is another consideration, with his rare combination of size and perimeter skill, though his immediate impact on wins is uncertain. The Nets also completed a trade for Julius Randle, which changes their salary and draft flexibility. Mikel Brown Jr.’s NBA draft profile is in a 1 minute and 3 second video.
Sacramento Kings evaluate Darius Acuff Jr.
There is strong mutual interest between Arkansas point guard Darius Acuff Jr. and the Sacramento Kings. The question is whether he will be available until the Kings pick, who appear willing to wait. The team analyzed other point guards and was in no rush to move up in the draft. Acuff is being considered by the Clippers and Nets, but rumors indicate that Sacramento is his preferred destination, where he would fit in as the team’s future point guard. A 52-second video details the NBA draft profile of Darius Acuff Jr., who aims to be the next Jalen Brunson.
The Atlanta Hawks and Kingston Flemings trade options
The Hawks’ pick is another vital point, with Atlanta weighing several trade options, including moving up to No. 5 or trading the pick. If they maintain the selection, Kingston Flemings, point guard from Houston, and Aday Mara are the most popular names. Flemings’ options have narrowed, with the Hawks and Bucks as more realistic destinations. Although Flemings is less refined, his explosiveness and intangible qualities keep him on the lottery’s radar.
Dallas Mavericks and the bet on Nate Ament
The Dallas Mavericks’ hiring of Dusty May as head coach has sparked speculation about Michigan’s prospects. However, there is skepticism about May’s influence on the choice, as President Masai Ujiri will make his first selection in charge. Ament, a power forward from Tennessee, has emerged as a prospect for the Mavs, being priced as high as No. 6. He would be an interesting partner for Cooper Flagg in the paint. The Mavericks are open to trading their pick as they build the team around Flagg, keeping Kyrie Irving for next season.
Milwaukee Bucks and Brayden Burries’ versatility
The Milwaukee Bucks finally completed the Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis trade with the Miami Heat, receiving Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, three first-round picks (including this year’s 13th), a future trade and a second-round pick. This negotiation should trigger more movements in the league. Burries, a shooting guard from Arizona, is the best option available to the Bucks, providing another point guard and a versatile option on the perimeter. He can immediately fit in and play alongside any of Milwaukee’s point guards. The two picks (10th and 13th) give the Bucks great flexibility. Brayden Burries’ NBA draft profile is featured in a 31-second video.
Golden State Warriors seek depth with Aday Mara
Michigan center Aday Mara fits perfectly in the 8-12 range. His imposing dimensions and offensive ability make him coveted by several teams. He would be a natural addition to Golden State, which needs tall players and depth in the paint. The Warriors would value Mara’s talent for setting up plays in Steve Kerr’s style of offense. The team is looking for a player who can contribute next season, but is also prioritizing the “best player available.” Mara, Brayden Burries (if available) and Yaxel Lendeborg are names to watch. Golden State could consider switching his position if their preferred targets have already been selected.
Oklahoma City Thunder Target Morez Johnson Jr.
Michigan power forward/center Morez Johnson Jr. has a strong market, with several teams interested in the mid-range of the lottery. He is a physical player and ready to take the court immediately, at just 20 years old. The Thunder made a strategic move by trading Aaron Wiggins to the Hawks, freeing up a roster spot and gaining flexibility. The team can move up in the draft or follow a simpler path, choosing at 12th position and looking for future assets with the 17th pick.
Milwaukee Bucks and Karim Lopez’s international talent
Teams picking in this draft range already expected the Bucks to acquire this pick from the Heat. Milwaukee’s previous pick at No. 10 and Miami’s evaluation of their young talent will influence the decision. New Zealand Breakers power forward Karim Lopez (Mexico) is one of the players that Milwaukee has shown great interest in. His combination of physical attributes, versatility and intangible qualities make him a moldable long-term prospect. If you are not selected by now, you could fall to the 10th round. Cameron Carr is another option if the team is looking for a winger.
Charlotte Hornets seek reinforcements for the big box
Washington power forward/center Hannes Steinbach had a positive pre-draft process, drawing interest from several teams at the bottom of the lottery, including Atlanta and Dallas. His measurements at the Combine confirmed the proper size for a center. He is seen as ready to contribute, although he would be better suited to a more athletic shooting partner. Steinbach and Morez Johnson are names often associated with this position. The Hornets are looking for reinforcements in the draft and on the trade market, and could even trade one of their first-round picks. The team has several expiring contracts, such as Miles Bridges, which provides flexibility.
Chicago Bulls and Cameron Carr’s potential
Baylor shooting guard/wing Cameron Carr should be selected between positions 13 and 19. His explosiveness and shooting ability offer interesting potential in a draft with few wings of his profile. The Chicago Bulls have been linked to him, likely looking for the best player available, but also needing to bolster the wings following the acquisition of Nic Claxton. The Bulls’ tank could become congested, with Matas Buzelis, Noa Essengue and Caleb Wilson needing minutes. In their first offseason under new management, the Bulls have salary cap space and are open to negotiations.
Memphis Grizzlies may invest in Christian Anderson
Christian Anderson, point guard from Texas Tech, was a surprise in the draft process and is on the rise, competing for position with a group of point guards. His interest starts with Milwaukee at the 13th pick, and he appears poised to be the top pick in that group. With Ja Morant’s future uncertain, the Grizzlies may seek reinforcements at the point guard position. The team also has future assets and a $28.8 million salary exception, which gives them negotiating power to move up in the draft or facilitate deals.
Yaxel Lendeborg could surprise Oklahoma City Thunder
Michigan power forward/wing Yaxel Lendeborg could see a considerable drop, with his potential estimated at No. 11 with the Warriors. His age (23) and mixed reviews in interviews are factors. However, he is a ready-to-play rotation player with a valuable skill set. Lendeborg and Karim Lopez are available in similar positions. The Aaron Wiggins trade gave the Thunder greater flexibility to pick at this position or trade it for future assets. A 50-second video features Bennett Stirtz, one of the players considered for the NBA draft.
Charlotte Hornets and the Bennett Stirtz experience
Iowa point guard Bennett Stirtz is attracting interest among the top 20 picks. Your fate will depend on possible exchanges. He is an option for the Mavericks and Warriors if they decide to trade their lottery positions. His ability to organize the attack and keep defenses attentive with his shots make him a player with a chance of playing immediately. However, his age (22 years old) and average athleticism make him a more specific option. The Hornets, with their two first-round picks, are looking to bolster their roster. If the team pursues a center at No. 14, this could be an opportunity for a perimeter player like Stirtz.
Toronto Raptors evaluate Ebuka Okorie
Recent rumors indicate that Stanford point guard Ebuka Okorie has risen up the rankings and is being considered by teams in the top 20 picks, including Memphis, Charlotte and Toronto. His rookie season generated an analytical profile that these teams like. Some love his dribbling and scoring ability, but there are concerns about his size. The selection order of this second group of point guards (Anderson, Stirtz, Okorie and Labaron Philon) is still uncertain. The Raptors have several needs and are heavily linked to point guards, with Allen Graves as an option if they don’t draft a perimeter player.
San Antonio Spurs seek reinforcement in the paint with Allen Graves
Santa Clara power forward Allen Graves is expected to be selected between the 16th and 22nd spots, depending on how the negotiations play out. His excellent analytical profile, ability to read the game and versatility make him attractive. However, his average athleticism and limited number of games against high-level opponents divide opinions. After the defeat in the finals, San Antonio’s biggest need seems to be reinforcement for the paint. Spurs would benefit greatly from finding a true winger to play alongside Victor Wembanyama.
Detroit Pistons and Isaiah Evans’ shooting
Duke guard Isaiah Evans’ ability to hit long-range shots keeps interest in first-rounders high, and he will likely be drafted in his 20s. He has good physicality for a shooting guard and the potential to become a valuable rotation player. Although he is more of a finisher, his ability to hit shots on the move is rare and coveted in the NBA. This skill would be essential for Detroit’s squad. The Pistons should look for a player with an offensive profile and a point guard to alleviate the pressure on Cade Cunningham. A 1 minute and 9 second video profiles Labaron Philon in the NBA draft.
Philadelphia 76ers could bet on Dailyn Swain
Texas shooting guard/wing Dailyn Swain is projected to be in the early second round, benefiting from the scarcity of versatile wings in the middle of the draft. He would fit well with the Philadelphia 76ers as an aggressive player with good wingspan, solid rebounding and defense. The 76ers evaluated several candidates and could opt for the best player available in new president Mike Gansey’s first draft. Finding a player who contributes immediately would be a win considering the team’s salary structure.
Atlanta Hawks evaluate Chris Cenac Jr. late in first round
Houston power forward/center Chris Cenac Jr. remains a firm first-round pick, but teams in their 20s question whether he’ll still be available. He is still developing his identity as a player and will take time to contribute. His physical stature and developing skill set him apart. The fact that he is further away from helping a team win immediately could limit his potential lineups. If Atlanta targets a point guard at the eighth spot, it could draft a center later. The Hawks have flexibility with their second pick.
New York Knicks seek reinforcement in the paint with Tarris Reed Jr.
UConn center Tarris Reed Jr. gained momentum after excelling in the NCAA tournament and is tipped to be selected late in the first round. His combination of wingspan, physical size, instinct for rebounds and offensive ability makes him a versatile and attractive player for teams aiming for the title. The Knicks are looking for reinforcements for the big box, with Mitchell Robinson becoming a free agent. Reed’s claw would fit in perfectly. The Knicks also have the 31st pick, guaranteeing two options to add rotation players on a cost-effective basis.
Los Angeles Lakers and Henri Veesaar’s versatility
North Carolina center Henri Veesaar’s perimeter shooting and physical size should earn him minutes in the rotation relatively early, putting him in contention for teams needing depth at the center position. The center position has been a constant rotation for the Lakers as they look to build a team around Luka Doncic. Veesaar’s shooting ability would make him a viable partner for Doncic on pick-and-roll plays.
Denver Nuggets and Labaron Philon Jr.’s potential
That would be a disappointment for Alabama guard/shooting guard Labaron Philon Jr., who has drawn interest from the Bucks. But one of the point guards is likely to fall to the end of the first round. Philon’s range of options appears particularly wide, with speculation that he could fall into the draft. The Nuggets must adopt the best strategy available to strengthen the roster, facing salary constraints. Philon would be an excellent choice in terms of value for money.
Boston Celtics and the development of Koa Peat
Arizona power forward/wing Koa Peat has sparked interest among teams in his 20s despite not receiving an invite to the green room. Concerns about his throwing mechanics are the main factor hurting his position. Boston, with a solid track record in player development, can maximize his potential. The Celtics were in contention for Giannis Antetokounmpo and there is speculation about trading Jaylen Brown.
Brooklyn Nets reinforce with Joshua Jefferson
The Nets moved up to 28th and acquired Julius Randle in a three-team trade that sent Nic Claxton to Chicago and provided salary cap flexibility. Iowa State power forward Joshua Jefferson’s positional versatility, game vision and overall skill level make him an interesting player for the Nets.
Cleveland Cavaliers and the talent of Meleek Thomas
Meleek Thomas, point guard/shooting guard from Arkansas, participated in workouts with several teams in the first round and established himself as a strong candidate, projected to be a top 20 pick. His physical size, ability to score and improvement in defense stood out. Cleveland should keep a good part of its squad and can opt for the best choice available. Thomas is the type of scorer who could reinforce the team’s bench.
Dallas Mavericks take a chance on Jayden Quaintance
Teams have expressed uncertainty about Kentucky center Jayden Quaintance’s potential, with speculation that he may not be selected in the first round due to health concerns. He did not receive an invitation to the green room. Still, teams love his talent and physical qualities. Quaintance’s position will depend on the teams’ comfort. Dallas could take a risk, as they are building the team according to Cooper Flagg’s schedule.
NBA draft second round picks
New York Knicks open the second round
- Sergio de Larrea, point guard/shooting guard, Valencia, Spain
Grizzlies and the arrival of Zuby Ejiofor
- Zuby Ejiofor, power forward/center, St. John’s, senior
Timberwolves bet on Baba Miller
- Baba Miller, power forward/center, Cincinnati, veteran
Sacramento Kings seek versatility with Alex Karaban
- Alex Karaban, forward/power forward, UConn, senior
San Antonio Spurs on Jack Kayil
- Jack Kayil, shooting guard/shooting guard, Alba Berlin, Germany
Clippers and the addition of Richie Saunders
- Richie Saunders, shooting guard/wing, BYU, senior
Thunder invests in Emanuel Sharp
- Emanuel Sharp, shooting guard, Houston, veteran
Chicago Bulls add Dillon Mitchell
- Dillon Mitchell, power forward, St. John’s, senior
Houston Rockets and Ryan Conwell
- Ryan Conwell, shooting guard, Louisville, senior
Boston Celtics select Braden Smith
- Braden Smith, guard, Purdue, senior
Miami Heat and Ja’Kobi Gillespie
- Ja’Kobi Gillespie, point guard, Tennessee, senior
San Antonio Spurs bet on Felix Okpara
- Felix Okpara, center, Tennessee, senior
Brooklyn Nets and Trevon Brazile
- Trevon Brazile, power forward, Arkansas, senior
San Antonio Spurs and Bruce Thornton
- Bruce Thornton, guard/shooting guard, Ohio State, senior
Sacramento Kings and Izaiyah Nelson
- Izaiyah Nelson, power forward/center, South Florida, senior
Orlando Magic select Ugonna Onyenso
- Ugonna Onyenso, center, Virginia, senior
Phoenix Suns add Aaron Nkrumah
- Aaron Nkrumah, shooting guard, Tennessee State, senior
Dallas Mavericks and Vsevolod Ishchenko
- Vsevolod Ishchenko, shooting guard/wing, Lokomotiv Kuban, Russia
Denver Nuggets and Jaden Bradley
- Jaden Bradley, shooting guard/shooting guard, Arizona, senior
Toronto Raptors select Tobe Awaka
- Tobe Awaka, power forward, Arizona, senior
Washington Wizards and Milos Uzan
- Milos Uzan, point guard, Houston, veteran
LA Clippers and Tre Donaldson
- Tre Donaldson, point guard, Miami, veteran
Houston Rockets add Quadir Copeland
- Quadir Copeland, shooting guard, NC State, senior
Golden State Warriors and Tobi Lawal
- Tobi Lawal, power forward, Virginia Tech, senior
New York Knicks bet on Tyler Nickel
- Tyler Nickel, shooting guard, Vanderbilt, senior
Chicago Bulls and Bryce Hopkins
- Bryce Hopkins, forward/power forward, St. John’s, senior
Atlanta Hawks and Nick Martinelli
- Nick Martinelli, forward/power forward, Northwestern, senior
New Orleans Pelicans select Maliq Brown
- Maliq Brown, power forward/center, Duke, senior
Minnesota Timberwolves and Noam Yaacov
- Noam Yaacov, shipowner, Ostend, Denmark
Washington Wizards sign Tyler Bilodeau
- Tyler Bilodeau, power forward, UCLA, senior