2026 NBA Draft Tracker

AJ Dybantsa is the no-brainer selection for the Wizards. Washington has the opportunity to land a frontcourt weapon that can develop into an absolute star, and with the chance to slot the BYU standout alongside Trae Young and Anthony Davis, the team can't go wrong. The versatile forward is an athletic freak, has a soft shooting touch, and can get to the rim at will. If Washington stays at No. 1, Dybantsa is their guy.

Darryn Peterson is in the same tier as AJ Dybantsa, but he doesn't fill the same immediate need the forward does. The Kansas guard is a dynamic scorer with a great feel for the game, and he proved that throughout his freshman campaign with the Jayhawks. Unfortunately, his desire to play point guard at the next level raises concerns about his fit with Trae Young. Not to mention, there are plenty of other off-the-court questions that could hinder the Wizards' evaluation of the explosive scorer.

Caleb Wilson may have the highest potential of any prospect in this entire draft class. Before the forward's freshman season got cut short due to injury, the versatile playmaker gained steam as one of the biggest risers in the NBA Draft. Wilson has the size, the motor, and defensive traits that could allow him to develop into a two-way monster in the right situation.

Cameron Boozer has a high ceiling, but whether he can scratch the surface of his potential as a dominant frontcourt weapon is the looming question. Whether he’d ultimately play alongside Anthony Davis or Alex Sarr, Boozer would give the Wizards the offensive building block they need to stabilize the interior. With his versatility as a scorer and unselfish play, he can also help create an identity for a Washington offense that badly needs one.

Darius Acuff Jr. is a dangerous scorer with the ball in his hands, and he proved to be an extremely efficient shooter from the mid-range and from three. He can play both backcourt positions due to his size and scoring upside, but he's more than capable of commanding the offense when asked to.

AJ Dybantsa has been a Utah guy through and through, even before the Jazz got the No. 2 pick. His skill set of being an oversized point guard and excellent defender would make Utah salivate at the prospect of drafting him. More than that, the Jazz don’t have the best history of keeping their stars, and Dybantsa’s devotion to Utah itself would give the Jazz the rare chance to have a franchise player play out his prime with them.

Darryn Peterson is riskier as a prospect because of some eccentricities that went on during his freshman year at Kansas, but he fits exactly what the Jazz need like a glove more than anyone else. If Peterson pans out, he projects to be an elite scorer who can space the floor for Utah. He has the size to be an elite guard while also being Keyonte George’s partner-in-crime for the foreseeable future.

Drafting Boozer would raise some questions, as the Jazz don’t really need frontcourt players, but he is among the more NBA-ready prospects in this loaded draft class. Boozer’s talent as a do-it-all big man makes him a tantalizing prospect no matter how talented the frontcourt is. The Jazz know they can’t keep everyone long-term, so when judgment day comes, it would be nice to have Boozer as an ace in the hole.

Caleb Wilson isn’t as much of a sure thing as the prospects projected to go ahead of him in this draft, but his ceiling is high enough that he could be better than them in the long run. Having an athletic and high-energy big man could make the Jazz’s frontcourt downright impossible to score on. Add in Wilson’s abilities as a scorer, and Utah would maybe have its most talented big man since Karl Malone.

Keaton Wagler is an electric guard who may not be overly explosive, but he knows how to utilize his speed to score at will. Defensively, there would be questions with him and Keyonte George, but Wagler is a guard who can score from anywhere in the halfcourt.

Cameron Boozer had an incredibly productive freshman season at Duke and is the dream analytics pick the Grizzlies’ front office gravitates toward. Despite some defensive and athletic concerns, he's an extremely efficient scorer from multiple play types and a tenacious rebounder. Cameron Boozer has the chance to form one of the NBA’s most physical frontcourts with Zach Edey.

Simply put, Darryn Peterson is arguably the best scorer in the 2026 NBA Draft. The Grizzlies desperately need a clear No. 1 scoring option to launch their rebuild, and Peterson fits that to perfection. Despite struggling with cramping and a hamstring injury at Kansas, Peterson is an extremely well-rounded scorer on and off the ball and has shown plenty of promising signs of defensive upside. Peterson could be the next offensive star in Memphis if selected.

Listed at 6-foot-10, Caleb Wilson would be an incredible two-way upside swing for the Grizzlies. The three-point shooting is a cause for concern, but Wilson is an explosive dunker and would be the ideal roll man in Tuomas Iisalo’s offense. Wilson is a tremendous shot-blocker and consistently crashes the glass on both ends. While he'll have to become a more consistent off-ball defender and keep growing as a playmaker, the upside is rather evident.

AJ Dybantsa has all the scoring and athletic tools needed to become a star wing in the NBA. Dybantsa is the exact downhill scorer the Grizzlies need and should likely make a strong leap as a jumpshooter. The Grizzlies need more scoring punch and positional size, making Dybantsa a tremendous fit. While his defense is a cause for concern, Dybantsa has the athleticism required to improve, and Tuomas Iisalo should help him buy in defensively.

A back injury prevented Mikel Brown Jr. from showing what made him so special before college. The Louisville guard would be a very strong fit to potentially succeed Ja Morant in Memphis long-term. Brown Jr. has significant potential as a shooter and is a quality playmaker. He also has the ideal athleticism required to get to the rim and compete defensively. There is risk, but the upside is impossible to ignore.

New Bulls executive VP of basketball operations Bryson Graham knows what he wants in a player — size, length, athleticism, and physicality. In his terms, SLAP. Caleb Wilson was created in a SLAP lab. At 6-foot-10 with a 7-foot wingspan, explosive athleticism, and an intensity level Kevin Garnett would be proud of, the 19-year-old North Carolina product would give Graham his first franchise cornerstone in Chicago.

The difference between Caleb Wilson and Cameron Boozer is in the eye of the beholder for the Bulls. Where Wilson is a dynamic athlete, Boozer has an elite skill set. He was the best freshman in college basketball last season, if not simply the best player. He could make an immediate impact and be a perennial All-Star, even if his ceiling isn’t as high as someone like Wilson.

Keaton Wagler burst onto the scene as a lightly regarded high schooler who became one of the best freshmen in America right in the Bulls’ backyard. He’s not the most explosive athlete, but his combination of positional size, IQ, feel, and elite 3-point shooting makes him an enticing combo guard prospect. Wagler effectively combines the strengths of Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey into one supremely promising guard, and could thus be the perfect bridge or even eventual focal point between them.

Darius Acuff Jr.‘s measureables, 6-foot-2 and 186 pounds, aren’t ideal. But his elite three-level scoring ability and knack for the big moment outweigh his small stature. With Acuff playing alongside Josh Giddey, the Bulls could address the instability in their backcourt scoring. Defensive questions would exist, but the offensive balance could give Chicago a strength to build around.

No. 4 would be a tad high for a 24-year-old, but apart from his age, there’s not much to pick apart in Yaxel Lendeborg’s game. He can score at all three levels, handle the ball, beat defenders off the dribble, and guard multiple positions. In Chicago, he could bring about a shift in ideology that emphasizes defense and trusts the resident big men to thrive on both ends of the floor.

For the LA Clippers, it does not get any better than Caleb Wilson. His game screams superstar. He fits better than anyone, and if the Clippers move on from Kawhi Leonard, Wilson is the perfect guy to give the keys to. Athleticism is off the charts, defense is out of this world, and he’s a tough shotmaker. This is the kind of guy the Clippers absolutely need on the court next to Darius Garland.

Keaton Wagler is the perfect-fit guard for the LA Clippers. He has excellent size, and with Illinois, he put on display everything he can do on both sides of the ball. It’s also worth noting he’s a great leader, as Illinois made it to the Final Four with him running the show. But the reason the Clippers might lean in his direction more than others is that he plays at his own pace. These types of guards succeed at the highest level.

Kingston Flemings is THE guard to have alongside Darius Garland. One of his best attributes is defense, and in the backcourt, that’s exactly what the LA Clippers need. Beyond that, though, Flemings is a great offensive talent. He can score efficiently, create plays when asked, and has excellent leadership skills for his age.

Cam Boozer fits like a glove within the LA Clippers’ system. He has the size to complement a smaller guard like Darius Garland, along with a ton of strength, playmaking ability, and scoring potential. On top of everything, Boozer has that real franchise-player feel to him. He can also be used in various ways, for example, a small-ball center, in which Tyronn Lue loves going to when attacking the weaknesses of certain teams that cannot keep up.

Aday Mara is a great prospect all around, with insane measurements, and has the tangibles to work extremely well with Darius Garland. This goes for both sides of the ball, and he demonstrated it during his time at Michigan. Of all of the talents within the Clippers’ range, Mara fits the best. He comes in as a quick, much younger replacement for Ivica Zubac and will be of immediate use while Yanic Konan Niederhauser recovers from the injury he suffered towards the end of last season.

There's no doubt that Darius Acuff Jr. is going to be hunted on the defensive side of the ball due to his poor effort and results there, but his 6-7 wingspan could give him some potential on that end. On offense, Acuff is a one-stop shop for instant improvement due to his lightning-quick speed, terrific 3-point shooting, and propensity for stepping up in big games. Brooklyn needs these traits in the worst way.

Mikel Brown Jr. is the type of player the Nets have historically valued, as he possesses great passing skills, length, and can pull up with endless range. The back injuries and lack of great efficiency are worrying, but Brown and Egor Demin as a long-term backcourt would be a long, versatile pairing that could grow together for years to come.

If the Nets want to spend money on a guard in the offseason and target a big man in the Draft, centers for how Jordi Fernandez wants to play don't come much better than this. Aday Mara needs a year or two to keep refining his scoring game, but 7-3 centers that move and pass like him are very rare. As a defender, Mara will be effective as a rim protector on Day 1.

Keaton Wagler may be a very awkward fit alongside Demin, as Wagler profiles as an off-ball sniper and Demin has shown signs that he is more suited to that role in the pros. Even with a lack of athleticism, Wagler has been a dynamic shooter and quality defender who profiles as the best 2-guard in this class, and the 30th-ranked Nets offense may be hard-pressed to turn him down.

Kingston Flemings' stock has taken a significant downturn after the NBA Draft Combine, as his listed height of 6-5 proved to be 6-2, with a 6-3 wingspan. Even with those concerns, Flemings is a ferocious on-ball defender who can get to the rim with ease and pull up from distance with solid efficiency. Even with the wingspan limitations, Flemings is the best defensive point guard in this class.

As one of the top players on Michigan’s 2026 Men's Basketball National Championship team, Yaxel Lendeborg should be going higher in the draft. He will be 24 as an NBA rookie and is easily one of the most complete players available. For the Kings, Lendeborg is a versatile defensive wing who can step on the court straight off the draft and be a big part of the team. He will get up to NBA speed quickly.

Darius Acuff Jr. might just be the perfect point guard for the Kings to insert directly into the rebuild core right out of the draft. He’s smart, mature, and composed, playing at his own pace every time he hits the court. Sacramento needs someone who can take contact and keep rolling, which is Acuff’s game. He is a tough 19-year-old who plays with grit and determination, making him a great fit for the Kings.

Scott Perry has been clear that the Kings are drafting based on fit and talent, not position. If the Kings aren't worried about specifically getting a guard, they could go with a forward like Nate Ament. He’s a wing with size, something Sacramento needs, as well as being a defender with surprising range. And everyone knows how focused Christie is on defense. If the Kings can help him lock down his threes, the sky’s the limit.

Mikel Brown Jr. is another guard who has been repeatedly associated with the Kings in various mock drafts, and for good reason. Sacramento needs more young players with the range and confidence to pull up and let the ball fly from deep. Brown definitely has that skillset. The Kings are building a core of bigs with Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Cardwell, and Precious Achiuwa. They’re going to need an outside threat like Brown to space the floor.

The Kings are always in the market for a young point guard to develop as part of their rebuilding process. Kingston Flemings is a born leader on the court with elite defensive skills, which align with Doug Christie’s coaching ethos. He would also find a good rhythm with players like Nique Clifford and Devin Carter quickly. Sacramento will definitely be keeping an eye on him.

With CJ McCollum being a stopgap, the Hawks desperately need a floor general to optimize their athleticism on the wings. Atlanta is in a good spot here with so many intriguing guard prospects, but Kingston Flemings is the safest bet to return top-ten value. He's the perfect plug-and-play fit as a traditional point guard, with all the tools required to set the table at the next level for Atlanta's downhill attack.

Mikel Brown Jr. has the highest ceiling among the guard prospects in this range, with a skill set made for the modern NBA, including creativity and shot-making. The injury concerns are valid, but if Atlanta wants to swing for upside, Brown is the ideal blend of fit and ceiling. Eventually, they need to hit on a pick to raise their trajectory, and Brown could very well be the player who becomes that much-needed co-star alongside Jalen Johnson.

Despite Onyeka Okongwu's career year, Atlanta must continue to address its frontcourt flaws. The fit here is better than some may think. Okongwu may have solidified his place as the long-term starter, but he's susceptible to matchups against bigger centers. At 7-foot-3, Michigan's Aday Mara is exactly the complementary piece who turns that weakness into a strength. With underrated court vision and a soft touch around the rim, the national champion gives the Hawks size and another dimension.

The Hawks shipped Trae Young at the deadline, committing to a new era prioritizing length, athleticism, and defense. Do they really want to revert to their old ways with an undersized, offensive-minded guard in Darius Acuff Jr.? The talent is undeniable, and Atlanta does need a lead guard to fill the Young void. Ideally, it would be more of a two-way player to better complement their existing pieces. The talent is better than the fit here as they look to embrace this post-Young era.

Brayden Burries is arguably the cleanest two-way fit on the board. With his defense, positional rebounding, and shot-making, Burries can make an immediate impact in Atlanta. The lack of an elite standout trait keeps him from going higher, but his ability to impact winning in several aspects gives him a safe floor with multiple pathways to success at the next level. Atlanta needs to add backcourt depth, and if they want an immediate-impact player to build on their postseason appearance, the Arizona guard is the answer.

Keaton Wagler would complement Flagg perfectly. At 6-foot-5, Wagler has the size to step in immediately as a combo guard alongside Irving before potentially taking over a larger ball-handling role once Irving’s tenure in Dallas comes to an end. The Mavericks desperately need additional playmaking and connective passing throughout the roster, and Wagler would provide exactly that. His basketball IQ stands out immediately, but his scoring ability shouldn’t be overlooked either.

Brayden Burries fits the mold of the modern two-way shooting guard. He can create off the dribble when needed, knock down catch-and-shoot opportunities, and defend opposing guards at a high level. That kind of versatility is something Dallas desperately needs in its backcourt. Burries would bring a different dimension to the lineup, with the potential to step in as an immediate starter while also easing some of Irving’s defensive workload.

Kingston Flemings measured smaller than expected at the combine, but his play style consistently makes him look bigger on the floor. Unlike many lottery-level point guard prospects, Flemings brings real defensive intensity. He’s a fiery, competitive defender who plays with high energy on that end. Offensively, his shooting ability would address a major need for the Mavericks. Dallas desperately needs both floor spacing and secondary creation, and Flemings has the skill set to provide both.

Mikel Brown Jr. projects as a long-term point guard, but he also has the size to contribute immediately at the two. He arguably possesses the highest ceiling of any prospect outside the top three in this draft class, making his potential availability at No. 9 incredibly enticing. Brown Jr. would provide the offensive spark Dallas desperately needs, and although he isn’t the most physically imposing player, that isn’t necessarily a requirement for this Mavericks roster.

Labaron Philon Jr. makes sense as an ideal replacement for Kyrie Irving. He’s a crafty scorer, strong playmaker, and willing defender. While he’s slightly undersized and lacks elite physicality, Dallas can compensate for that with its physically gifted frontcourt. Philon’s well-rounded game makes him an excellent fit alongside Cooper Flagg and positions him as a long-term answer at lead guard.

An NBA-ready contributor with an All-Star ceiling, Brayden Burries would be a Bucks dream at No. 10. He is an efficient, consistent playmaker who can score from anywhere. His passing skills will only grow with opportunity. The Bucks have learned their lesson with undersized, defensively challenged guards. Burries isn't that. As a two-way force, Burries fits the vision Milwaukee uncovered last season with Rollins and Porter. An NBA comparison? Jrue Holiday. That works.

Among true point guards within Milwaukee's range, Labaron Philon Jr. is the most appealing option on the table. He ticked all the boxes as a sophomore: natural high-volume scorer, strong shooter, can attack the rim and create efficiently for teammates. With Rollins being more of a combo guard, Philon could stabilize the future backcourt and take some shot-creation pressure off Rollins' plate. Size could be somewhat of a concern defensively, but Philon can bring enough offense to compensate.

The Michigan champion can do a bit of everything: shoot the three, move well off-ball, and play solid on-ball defense. He can make plays with the ball in his hands, but he isn't careless (three-to-one assist-to-turnover ratio). Yaxel Lendeborg is arguably the best plug-and-play option outside the top five picks. Particularly if Giannis Antetokounmpo stays in Milwaukee and the Bucks want a high-floor, NBA-ready prospect, they could do much worse than Lendeborg.

The Bucks need to find Ryan Rollins a partner in the backcourt, especially if Kevin Porter Jr. declines his player option and leaves in free agency. Mikel Brown Jr., who had a 45-point game last season, has the upside Milwaukee should want in a top 10 pick. He also has the size to avoid being picked on if he can improve his focus defensively. Refining his shot diet is the first step to becoming an offensive star in the NBA.

Consensus opinion has seemingly penciled in Nate Ament as the pick for Milwaukee. True, he would address the roster hole at small forward. He is a long, switchable defender. Offensively, Ament has a good handle, can make perimeter shots, and can create his own looks. But Ament is also inefficient and raw. His prototype has played out poorly in recent Bucks drafts. They can't afford a repeat, and while he has some strengths, Ament should not be Jon Horst's first choice.

The Warriors have just re-signed Steve Kerr and are trying to build around a 38-year-old Stephen Curry, making them arguably more likely than any other to use a lottery pick on a rookie who will be 24 entering next season. Yaxel Lendeborg also fits a need as a two-way, versatile forward, given Golden State has lost Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody to long-term knee injuries.

The Warriors haven’t found a long-term starting center for what feels like forever, having infamously missed on James Wiseman nearly six years ago. The towering 7’3” Mara could finally answer their prayers, giving Golden State a two-way presence in the paint for the next decade.

While Yaxel Lendeborg makes sense on one hand, others will argue that this is now the time to focus on the future and look beyond the Curry era. If the Warriors take that approach, Nate Ament would make a lot of sense as a 19-year-old, 6’10 scorer with all the tools, but who may take a while to develop and make an impact.

Karim Lopez may split the difference as a younger player with upside, but his versatile skill set means he should fit into the Warrior system and allow him to make an impact immediately. Lopez has two years of experience playing against men in the NBL, where he proved he can make an impact on both ends of the floor.

With Curry entering the final years of his career, what better time to find his successor and have them learn alongside the 2x MVP? That’s exactly what Philon could be as a similar score-first, below-the-rim guard who put up big and efficient numbers during his sophomore year at Alabama.

The Thunder are overflowing with guards and small wings on their current roster, with the only true forward with size being Jalen Williams. That makes Nate Ament such an intriguing swing for the Thunder to make, as the 6'10" forward is hyper-skilled but brings elite size as well. He is a work-in-progress, but the upside is another All-Star to add to the mix who can dribble, shoot, score, draw fouls, and hold up defensively. They can afford the risk that he flames out with a big swing.

The Thunder need players who can go to war in the playoffs, which requires a healthy measure of physicality and mental toughness. Yaxel Lendeborg checks all of the boxes as he showed on the title-winning Michigan team this past year. Sam Presti loves do-it-all players, and Lendeborg can do a little of everything. His size, rebounding, and basketball IQ will fit right in, and he will be an impact defender from day one.

Aday Mara would provide the Thunder with a mountain-ready center to deploy, an entirely different look than they get with the undersized Jaylin Williams at backup center. Mara's passing ability unlocks plays that Mark Daigneault can run, and his rebounding and finishing would be dangerous weapons against teams desperately trying to stop Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Add in elite rim protection for a team whose identity is built on defense, and you've got yourself a match made in heaven.

Brayden Burries is a burly combo forward packaged into a shooting guard's body, and the Oklahoma City Thunder love that kind of player. He has the tenacity that Oklahoma City prizes in a prospect, and it has driven him to get better and better each season. With Alex Caruso on track to age out and one of Cason Wallace or Ajay Mitchell likely to be priced out of a long-term tenure, Burries could step in and meet a need.

The Thunder love their double-big looks, but with Isaiah Hartenstein a potential cap casualty, they need to find a replacement. Who better than another massive, skilled center from Germany to take his place? Hannes Steinbach is a monster on the glass, a stout rim protector, and an underrated passer. He is not an elite shot blocker, but he has the tools to improve in that area.

A prospect who has the measurables, skill set, and production, Cameron Carr may be exactly what the Heat are looking for in a potential Tyler Herro replacement. Carr is already a proven offensive talent who only continued to impress during the draft combine. With pro athleticism, length, and size, Carr has the potential to blossom into the exact two-way star the Heat is desperately seeking. In the Heat's developmental system, Carr could blossom into the best late-lottery steal of this class.

If the Miami Heat are looking for a point guard of the future, Labaron Philon Jr. could be right there for the taking. As an irritant on the defensive end of the floor while being a true pass-first distributor, Philon Jr. could give the Heat the first real point guard they’ve had since Goran Dragic. He’d certainly help make life a whole lot easier for Bam Adebayo and Kel’el Ware in the frontcourt.

There may not be a player in this draft class who could realistically fall to Miami and scream Heat Culture more than Yaxel Lendeborg. As one of the most experienced players projected to be taken in the lottery, Lendeborg is a proven winner. He'd make an impact right away on both ends of the floor with his versatility on defense and his improving 3-point shot. He's the type of intangible player that every championship team needs.

Speaking of two-way guards with a high ceiling in this draft class, there aren't many that project better than Brayden Burries. A true two-way threat, Burries has the chance to be the next great Swiss-Army Knife for the Heat in the future. Because of his versatility on both ends of the floor, Burries seems like a perfect fit in Erik Spoelstra's positionless philosophy.

If the Miami Heat are looking for a long-term project that they could stash for a couple of seasons before unleashing him, Nate Ament would be a prospect to target. Ament's great length and size for a wing, along with his natural scoring touch, would make him an excellent project for one of the best developmental organizations in the league. If the Heat wants to land a star without giving up assets in a trade, he gives them that opportunity late in the lottery.

Yaxel Lendeborg should be near the top of every Hornets fan’s wishlist. He's a do‑it‑all forward who can plug in on day one and elevate the roster without needing years of development, which is exactly the kind of smart, high‑floor addition Charlotte should be targeting. Charlotte is pushing toward contention and still needs frontcourt upgrades. Lendeborg brings defensive toughness and switchability—traits that would help the Hornets solidify a more physical, identity‑driven defense.

It’s easy to fall in love with the idea of Jayden Quaintance. If Jeff Peterson wants to take a calculated home run swing, Quaintance might be the boldest bet on the board. The All-Defensive Team potential is enough to take a shot on with two picks in the first round. As long as you can stomach the injury concerns, Charlotte could walk away with a defensive talent similar to Jaren Jackson Jr.

Hannes Steinbach could become a walking double-double with the Charlotte Hornets. His size and length are very much needed, and he doesn't shy away from taking a three. The concept of a shooting big man has been foreign to the Hornets, so adding Steinbach here, who impacts the floor in many ways on both ends of the floor, would be a great move.

Jeff Peterson made it clear just how deep this guard class is, and Charlotte may have the high‑level prospect Labaron Philon Jr. available at either No. 14 or No. 18. Coby White should get re-signed, but you still want some more depth, competition, and insurance to fill out the roster. The offensive talent that he possesses will fit well in Charles Lee’s system with smooth three-level scoring and incredible handles.

Morez Johnson Jr. reminds me a lot of Moussa Diabate, in that he's a tough and physical player who hustles on every single play. His combine measurables and results in the drills were outstanding. His floor is high, but the ceiling isn't like many other prospects. Charlotte can grab a versatile defender here who embodies the physicality mindset.

Jayden Quiantance is a total gamble on the defensive tools, as he played just a handful of games this year at Kentucky and is incredibly raw offensively. However, the Raptors need exactly what Quaintance provides to replace Jakob Poeltl, and his truly rare athletic gifts will make him a plus defender in the NBA immediately and a solid developmental offensive player worth investing in.

Chris Cenac didn't set the world on fire in college, but some mouth-watering measurements at the Combine suggest that his defensive potential is there, and his offensive game may be close to positively impacting an NBA second unit. Cenac has Top 10 potential, and the Raptors could form a hellacious defensive team with him, Collin Murray-Boyles, and Scottie Barnes.

Bennett Stirtz's questions focus on his athleticism and whether the same skills that fooled opponents at Drake and Iowa will hold up against NBA-level athletes. If the Raptors believe in him, he and Jamal Shead could form a tremendous 1-2 punch at point guard for the future. The shooting, passing, and defensive effort are all there for him.

Smaller point guards that won't be amazing defenders very rarely get picked this high, but Ebuka Okorie could be an exception after lighting up the ACC. Toronto needs someone outside of Murray-Boyles and Ja'Kobe Walter to scare teams off the bench to reduce their dependence on their overworked starting lineup, and Okorie may be one of the Top 10 pure scorers in this draft.

At 7-foot, Henri Veesaar brings the traditional height teams look for from the five spot while also being an excellent outside shooter and a high-level roller. Giving Luka Doncic another option to hit on a pop or roll would create fits for opposing defenses. Veesaar also has good instincts as a passer out of the short roll, and while he is thin-framed, his length helps him recover when he is overpowered in the post.

ESPN’s Jeremy Woo projected Morez Johnson landing with the Spurs in his post-lottery mock, but it feels like a bit of a pipe dream to expect him to fall that far. If San Antonio landed the Michigan power forward at 20, it would be a major steal. His ridiculous defensive versatility and rugged competitiveness would make this team’s already terrifying defense even scarier. The only concern with this fit is his lack of shooting, although some believe he could develop a respectable spot-up jumper.

You can never have too many versatile wings on your roster. Cameron Carr is a 3-and-D weapon, and San Antonio could really benefit from his services as a movement shooter. The Baylor product could fit alongside any of this team’s stars seamlessly. The idea of watching him and Carter Bryant fly around together in bench lineups is beyond exciting. This would be a home run addition for the Spurs.

Outside of Victor Wembanyama and Luke Kornet, the Spurs have a smaller frontcourt. Chris Cenac would be an injection of size with a side of shooting, addressing two of San Antonio’s weaknesses with one pick: a double whammy. Cenac is on the raw side, but he’s toolsy and talented, and this club has shown they can be trusted to develop players. On top of that, he’s been pegged as a high character guy, an added sweetener for a team that has chemistry they won’t want to mess with.

Tarris Reed Jr. will be able to plug in and play winning basketball from day one. He’s unselfish. He’s tough. He’s productive -- he’s really the full package. The Spurs don’t have a third-string center they can rely on, and Reed would be exactly that. Chances are, he’d be more than capable of filling in for an injured Victor Wembanyama or Luke Kornet as well. The big fella from UConn is as close to can’t-miss as it gets, especially outside of the lottery.

A tough-as-nails defensive monster, Zuby Ejiofor would add an extra edge to the Spurs that they’re missing at times. He’s somewhat of a positional tweener, but he also has some unicorn to him with the way he moves around and blows stuff up defensively. It’s easy to picture him complementing Wemby in the frontcourt on both sides of the ball. If San Antonio lands Ejiofor, opponents might never score on them again.

Cameron Carr is another two-way wing prospect who fits the Pistons' culture, as he's a very good defender and efficient scorer. He has the athleticism to finish above the rim, as well as solid high-volume 3-point numbers that point to a floor of a 3-and-D wing. Carr would be a seamless culture and style fit who would give the Pistons some much-needed scoring on the wing without sacrificing their defensive ethos.

Christian Anderson checks several boxes for the Pistons as a solid ball handler and creator who can also play off the ball. He was an excellent high-volume 3-point shooter this season, hitting over 41 percent on 8 attempts per game, which would fit well on a team desperate for shooting. There are questions about his size and quickness, but Anderson could fill needs immediately for the Pistons as a scorer and ball handler.

Isaiah Evans has good size and is a movement shooter whose shot projects favorably at the next level, given his high volume in college. He has the kind of defensive length the Pistons like. There are questions about his shot creation, but he has long-term offensive upside that the Pistons need in a wing rotation that has little shooting.

The Pistons clearly need a secondary ball handler and scorer to help ease the burden on Cade Cunningham. Bennett Stirtz is a crafty ball-screen operator who is heavily used. The question is whether he'll be able to use his physicality as well at the next level, given his lack of quickness, but he's potentially a plug-and-play guy for a team that needs his skill set right away.

Dailyn Swain is an athletic, versatile defender who would fit right into the Pistons' defense-first culture, but his mediocre 3-point volume and accuracy could be a problem for a team that needs more scoring. He did have a big jump in efficiency this season and has always been over 80 percent at the line, so if the 3-ball comes around, he could be a nice two-way wing, which is something Detroit lacks.

Dailyn Swain’s ceiling will far outreach his eventual draft slot, which makes him a potential home run selection if he’s on the board at No. 22. The Sixers can value Swain for his size and defensive versatility on the wing. He’s also a promising secondary ball-handler to fold into the rotation behind Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. Swain pressures the rim with bursty, bendy handles and flashes enough touch to believe he can fix his 3-point shortcomings.

If he’s available, Steinbach is the most obvious solution to what ails Philadelphia. He’s a strong, fundamentally sound rebounder who seals off the lane. He should crash the glass at a high level on day one. He’s also a skilled post scorer and connective passer, with hints of future 3-point expansion to come. Philly can toggle him between the four and five, potentially addressing needs with or without Joel Embiid on the floor.

Allen Graves is a punishing defender, with telepathic instincts to disrupt passing lanes or blow up shot attempts from the weak side. He’s not an explosive athlete, but he’s so sharp with his rotations and quite coordinated. On the other end, he’s a 40 percent spot-up shooter from deep, with enough hints of slashing utility and connective IQ to think he can expand his output with more trust and NBA spacing.

If there’s one thing these playoffs have shown, it’s that you need real advantage creators on offense — guys who can stir the drink and set things in motion. Small guards have fallen out of fashion, but Okorie is a strong athlete with a 6’8 wingspan who plays well on defense. He is also the most terrifying downhill scorer in the draft, with a blazing first step and elite body control attacking at full speed. Philly needs a decent backup guard.

With the exception of James Harden and Ben Simmons, the Embiid era in Philly has featured precious few elite passers. Joshua Jefferson checks that box — along with providing value as a disruptive defender and a scalable, malleable offensive Swiss Army Knife. He’s a funky, off-beat slasher and an increasingly believable 3-point shooter. Age and limited explosiveness are knocks, but Jefferson’s well-rounded profile and IQ point to immediate utility.

The Knicks have a habit of landing real contributors from the end of the first round. It's what well-run teams do. Ebuka Okorie would have a real chance to be their best steal yet. He's a bit like Immanuel Quickley and Deuce McBride with his 3-point shooting and low turnovers, but he has the skill and untraditional burst to be much more. After a footwork clinic with the Brunsons, New York could have another star on their hands.

Allen Graves is definitely a bit of a weird prospect. But it's in the exact kind of way that makes you think he might wind up being one of the guys nobody can believe didn't go in the lottery. That sounds like the Knicks' bread and butter. Their front office would typically draft someone like Graves after another year or two in college, especially with NIL in place, but if he stays in the draft...

Jordan Clarkson is an exception, not the rule, when it comes to late-career development. But it's hard to see the different roles he played for the Knicks this year and think that Bennett Stirtz, with his 3-point shooting and experience serving as the engine of Iowa's offense, wouldn't be able to carve out a role under Mike Brown. The Knicks tend to like prospects with experience that can shoot. Stritz swished his way up from Division II to the Elite Eight.

The Knicks have the infrastructure to mitigate Dailyn Swain's shooting troubles. They can set him up as a young, athletic, slashing forward who brings defensive intensity and length, with a streamlined offensive role. He'd fit right in with Mohamed Diawara, as both are talented wings who can impact the game on both ends but have key weaknesses keeping them from an immediate playoff run. Contenders are supposed to stock up on those, right?

New Yorkers should know Zuby Ejiofor well. The big man displayed resilience by recovering from a disappointing freshman year at Kansas with year-by-year improvement under Rick Pitino at St. John's. Guerschon Yabusele's lack of fit in Mike Brown's system might be cause for concern, given Ejiofor's projection as a "small-ball 5." But his proven abilities to make the right reads and power through adversity make him a good fit for these Knicks – regardless of any geographical connections.

If the Lakers start to feel like they may lose Austin Reaves to free agency this summer, the obvious pick is Cameron Carr. He has solid size as an off-guard and a 7-foot-plus wingspan that could help him excel as a defensive stopper as his career progresses. He also combines Cameron Thomas-like shot-creation and elite floor spacing with monster-like size. If the Lakers are looking to pair Luka Doncic with a scoring guard in the draft, Carr has to be the pick.

The German big man isn’t the strongest defensively, isn’t a high-level scorer, and doesn’t have an outside shot yet. Still, Hannes Steinbach dominates the glass, and for a Lakers team that struggled immensely in that department, he could be a perfect fit. Along with his polished rebounding skills from an upside-down point of view, there’s a ton to like with his passing in the short roll and potential as a scorer inside and out.

Zuby Ejiofor is the definition of a Swiss Army Knife player. Elite rim protector, good passer for his size, elite touch on the inside, an improving outside shot, and a natural leader. He wouldn’t be the most glamorous pick or a long-term starting center solution given his size, but he has the profile to be an impact player from day one. Along with the upside of developing into one of the league's most elite backup centers.

At 7-foot, Henri Veesaar brings the traditional height teams look for from the five spot while also being an excellent outside shooter and a high-level roller. Giving Luka Doncic another option to hit on a pop or roll would create fits for opposing defenses. Veesaar also has good instincts as a passer out of the short roll, and while he is thin-framed, his length helps him recover when he is overpowered in the post.

Baba Miller is a versatile, long two-way wing, which is the exact type of player the Lakers have been searching for. He has incredible instincts that make him a problem in passing lanes and allow him to guard one through five. Due to a massive growth spurt at the end of high school, Miller went from an undersized guard to a forward, which helped him become a jumbo playmaker. He could be a strong secondary playmaker for LA, and if he can improve his outside shot, he’ll truly be a do-it-all wing.

Zuby Ejiofor has been moving up draft boards for good reason. In addition to being a force in the paint and an excellent shot blocker, he's physical, athletic, and quick for a big man. His presence in the paint is what the Nuggets were lacking all season. Ejiofor also possesses excellent shooting ability, as evidenced by his combine numbers.

Dailyn Swain could be a potential replacement for Peyton Watson if the Nuggets can't re-sign him. He's a good perimeter defender with the athleticism to get downhill and in the paint with the best of them. That driving ability was something the Nuggets sorely lacked against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Morez Johnson is a defensive force in the paint and a rim protector, and perhaps was even the best defensive player on the best team in the country. Johnson would be an undersized five, but he's a solid four and could be an anchor for the non-Jokic minutes in a small-ball unit. He can handle the switch at the perimeter, and in the paint, he's tough to move.

Bennett Stirtz possesses good ball-handling skills, and he limits his mistakes. He's another pick-and-roll master who would benefit the Nuggets with excellent off-screen shooting, and he's a great off-ball cutter, which is perfect for a team that loves to backdoor-cut their opponents off Nikola Jokic passes. Stirz showed high-level basketball IQ at Iowa, and that could pair well with Jokic. Stirtz could make for a nice reserve shooter off the bench.

Christian Anderson would make a good fit for the Nuggets thanks to his excellent shooting off the dribble and stellar passing. He's a great pick-and-roll and shooter, and he would fit well on the second unit running the two-man game with Nikola Jokic in the Nuggets staggered Murray-Jokic rotation. Anderson's three-point shot would also be a boon, as he'd likely have open shots playing with Jokic. Anderson shot 41.5% from deep last season, and he could be one of the best shooters in the country.

Zuby Ejiofor’s defensive versatility makes him a great potential fit in Boston. The Celtics missed having a defensive specialist in the frontcourt to throw on Joel Embiid in the playoffs. At 245 pounds, the St. John’s senior already has the NBA-level strength necessary to battle with the best bigs, though he’s undersized at 6 '7". Plus, he’s comfortable switching out onto the perimeter. If Boston believes they can improve Ejiofor’s jumpshot, he’d be worth picking.

Tarris Reed can impact winning on both sides of the ball. He’d give the Celtics a solid low-usage finishing option on offense and a strong, versatile presence on defense. Reed is a strong defensive playmaker and one-on-one defender. He lacks any semblance of a jumpshot, though, so his scoring would be limited to quick layups and dunks. The UConn senior’s six-foot-ten-inch, 265-pound frame would provide additional frontcourt depth with Nikola Vucevic’s looming exit, too.

Christian Anderson would give the Celtics some much-needed offensive firepower. A team that failed to score more than 100 points in their final three playoff games could use his elite shooting, brilliant pick-and-roll play, and strong playmaking abilities. Of course, for any of that to matter, Anderson will have to show that he can defend at an NBA level at just 6’3”. He’d also have to be comfortable fitting in without the ball.

Isaiah Evans fits the typical 2020s Celtics mold. He makes his threes, and he’s not afraid to take them, either. There’s still room for the Duke standout to improve as a defender. Inadequate defenders don’t see the floor under Joe Mazzulla. But, if nothing else, the sophomore plays with a perpetual effort on that side of the ball. At the very least, Evans would give the Celtics another sharpshooting option to bring off their bench.

Meleek Thomas’s game projects to fit well with the Celtics. He proved to be a reliable three-point shooter at a decent volume in his freshman season at Arkansas. The 19-year-old can also serve as an occasional playmaker and can be trusted to avoid turnovers. Thomas still has some work to do on his body, but he has good defensive playmaking instincts. With added muscle, his six-foot-five-inch frame could enable him to be a versatile defender.

Point guard is the most commonly mentioned need for the Timberwolves. Undoubtedly, Bennett Stirtz's stellar playmaking, stable ball-handling, lights-out shooting, and crafty finishing would all benefit Minnesota. Of these skills, Stirtz's ability to take pressure off Anthony Edwards as a ball handler would be especially impactful. Stirtz's age could cause him to fall to pick 28, but he projects to be an immediate contributor, and that's exactly what the Wolves should be searching for.

In the wake of Donte DiVincenzo's devastating injury, high-end spot-up shooting is now a pressing need for the Timberwolves. As one of the best shooters in the draft, Meleek Thomas could absolutely help fill this void. Additionally, Thomas' positional size, connective playmaking, self-creation, and defensive playmaking would allow him to fit seamlessly alongside Minnesota's established talent. All in all, Thomas checks just about every box for the Wolves at pick 28.

If the Timberwolves opt to draft a point guard, Christian Anderson stands out as an ideal target. Due to size concerns, he may very well fall into the Wolves' lap at pick 28. Say what you will about his frame, but shooting and playmaking are clearly two bankable skills. Likewise, these are two skills that the Wolves' bench would greatly benefit from adding. Even if you're concerned about Anderson's size, drafting him in the late first round feels like a worthy investment.

Isaiah Evans can certainly fill the Timberwolves' need for spot-up shooting. While at Duke, Evans also showed that he can provide value as a secondary creator and microwave scorer. A wing with solid size and the ability to provide scoring on and off the ball is exactly what the Wolves need. Overall, Evans projects to be a high-quality complementary wing, and that should firmly put him on Minnesota's board.

If the Timberwolves are looking for a ready-made pro, Joshua Jefferson is a logical target. Jefferson's two-way versatility and basketball IQ could earn him a spot in the Wolves' rotation as a rookie playing a Kyle Anderson-esque role. He'd be a perfect fit for the Wolves' defensive identity, able to guard multiple positions and wreak havoc as a defensive playmaker. On offense, Jefferson's blend of playmaking, size, and finishing would also be a boost to Minnesota.

Allen Graves' draft stock is all over the place, but if he remains in the draft, he is a diamond waiting to be uncovered. He is a possession-generating machine, and his combination of defensive playmaking and offensive rebounding makes him an excellent power forward to pair with either Mobley or Allen. They have made it work before with below-average athletes, and Graves brings everything else to the table. He could end up as a Top-15 player in this class.

The Cavaliers have finally put together a deep room of wings to connect their All-Star bigs to their All-Star guards, and Isaiah Evans would further bolster their strength. He is a high-volume shooter with the potential to be one of the league's best, while also showing some pop attacking closeouts and finishing inside. He is rail-thin and needs to add strength to survive defensively, but it's worth it for Cleveland to bet on the shooting upside.

The Cavaliers would love a rebounding and shot-blocking machine at backup center, and Tarris Reed is plug-and-play to fill that role. Add in his playmaking and finishing, and you get the consummate backup center, a player the Cavs could really use, whether or not they keep Mobley and Allen together. His upside is lower than many of his compatriots, but Cleveland would be locking in his floor to fill a specific need -- and Reed fits it like a glove.

Cleveland desperately needs a forward-sized player to add to their rotation. They have Dean Wade and no one else. Joshua Jefferson has the size and strength to fill the role that De'Andre Hunter could not, defending multiple positions without sacrificing the size that defines the Cavaliers' defense. Jefferson's playmaking, passing, and crafty finishing will give the Cavs a different look off the bench, and his basketball IQ will shine in Kenny Atkinson's offense.

The Cavaliers don't need a star. They are awash in stars, and none of them fit together. The Cavs badly need forwards who can shoot, and they need someone not afraid of the moment. Alex Karaban played in three Final Fours, can shoot at volume, and is a vocal leader. His athleticism will hold him back from being a star - but Cleveland just needs a DUDE. Karaban can be that guy.

Braden Smith was arguably the best pure point guard in the country during his college career. He averaged nearly nine assists per game in each of the last two seasons and also shot potently from three-point range during his four years at Purdue. The Rockets desperately need a young point guard to lead their offense, and Smith could be the perfect option. He is defensively limited at 6’0” but clever enough to hold his own.

Ryan Conwell’s shooting stood out during his college career and at the Draft Combine. Conwell had multiple seasons shooting 40% from three on over seven attempts per game. Conwell’s deep range and quick release force defensive attention whenever he touches the court. He’ll be ready to start launching the moment he touches an NBA court.

Ja’Kobi Gillespie is a solid point guard prospect that can give the Rockets a floor general they desperately need. He’s a solid outside shooter and playmaker who averaged 18 points and 5 assists per game for Tennessee last season. His biggest weakness is his defensive limitation due to being just 5’11” barefoot, but he remains active enough to snag 2 steals per game. The Rockets also have the perfect roster to mask this weakness.

Tamin Lipsey is another undersized point guard prospect with strong offensive leadership. His biggest strength is his playmaking while limiting turnovers, a key characteristic that the Rockets need. Lipsey was also a great college defender, averaging 2.3 steals per game for his career. Despite shooting and size concerns, he can help the Rockets on both ends right away.

Alex Karaban is an elite shooter with a long history of success at the college level. He was a two-time national champion at UConn and shot 37% from three for his 4-year career. Karaban leverages his shooting effectively to knock down his own shots and create opportunities for teammates. Although he’s limited in other areas, his shooting alone can significantly boost the Rockets' offense and help develop the young guards already on the roster.

Richie Saunders could be the type of instant offense the Pelicans can’t afford to pass up at the back half of the draft. In his senior season at BYU, he shot 37.6 percent from beyond the arc and possesses elite catch-and-shoot instincts, as well as the ability to score from the perimeter off the dribble. New Orleans was bottom seven in threes attempted, made, and overall three-point percentage this postseason, and Saunders could come in and help improve those margins from day one.

Bruce Thornton was among the most productive point guards in college basketball as a senior, with an uncommon blend of brute-force strength and electrifying shot-making, all packaged in a (by modern NBA standards) tiny frame. There are traces of Jalen Brunson in there; he can put his defender in jail and really carve up a defense with craft. He’s unconventional, but in a way that should inspire confidence, not worry.

Ja'Kobi Gillespie offers a very particular set of skills. He will light it up from 3-point range — deep 3-point range — and he’s confident creating his own looks in the mid-range, with a small but stout frame that he can use to create angles and manipulate the defender. He’s limited in his ability to pressure the rim, and he will be a target on defense, but Gillespie’s nonstop effort and sky-high confidence would make him a fun third or fourth guard.

Rafael Castro is conceptually a very fun complement to Derik Queen in the frontcourt. Castro is wiry and rangy, able to guard out on the perimeter and wreak havoc as a weak-side shot blocker — perhaps covering for some of Queen’s weaknesses on that end. Both offer a functional handle and real playmaking IQ on the other end. That combination of skill and versatility ought to really appeal to New Orleans.

Izaiyah Nelson is a pogo-stick athlete, which could lead to plenty of highlights if he’s ever on the floor next to Zion Williamson. He also complements Derik Queen, who can face up from the elbow, drop dimes to a backdoor cutter or even toss lobs, which is how Nelson butters his bread on the offensive end — as an explosive finisher. Defensively, the motor runs hot. This would be a worthwhile upside swing late in the second round.

With Collin Gillespie set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer, Phoenix's need for a guard has never been higher, and Braden Smith is their perfect guard. Devin Booker is at his best when he is next to a facilitator, and for the last several years, Smith was college basketball’s best passer and playmaker. Smith is a natural leader who brings experience and knows how to conduct an offense. He fits in perfectly with Phoenix, as he also has a certain grit that aligns with their culture.

Baba Miller would give Phoenix compelling dynamism in the frontcourt, with fluid open-court athleticism, functional handles, and real passing vision in a near-seven-foot frame. The Suns’ wing and forward rotation is mighty thin; Miller can cover a range of assignments on defense and provide Phoenix with valuable connective tissue (and rare upside for a second-round pick). If he can add strength and develop his perimeter scoring, he's a steal.

Kylan Boswell has a stocky frame that he uses to body up guards and wings, whether they are bigger in stature than him or not. He has incredibly active hands, reads passing lanes well, and knows how to lead a team defensively. His defensive nastiness would fit well with Jordan Ott’s grit-and-grind system that helped Phoenix reach the postseason. He isn’t extremely polished offensively but has the type of natural playmaking skills that would allow him to complement Devin Booker very well.

Jaden Bradley is one of college basketball's most elite scoring guards, posing a threat both driving the ball and as a shooter. He has natural lead guard instincts and could be the type of instant offense the Suns are looking for off the bench. Coming off winning Big-12 player of the year, Bradley may be the most underrated guard in this summer's draft and could be a major steal for the Suns.

It's rare you find a 6-foot-2 off guard that is a 3-and-D specialist, but that is exactly who Ryan Conwell is. His ability to play off the ball would make him a fun weapon off the bench for Jordan Ott and give him another guy who can help string together stops on the perimeter. Staying on the perimeter, Conwell has an incredibly fluid jumper that would give the Suns a massive shooting boost.

The Orlando Magic are looking for some more size and play above the rim. They probably will not be able to afford the luxury of Goga Bitadze much longer. Getting someone who is active around the basket, a strong rim protector, and a good leaper feels essential to unlock the best version of this lineup. Chris Cenac Jr. closely resembles the kind of centers Sean Sweeney used in San Antonio and Dallas.

The Orlando Magic drafted a smaller guard last year in Jase Richardson, and he struggled to get off the bench. Bruce Thornton is a little bigger. The Magic can't draft wings and perimeter players who cannot shoot at this point. Thornton is a strong shooter. That puts him under consideration for the Magic.

The Orlando Magic are looking for players who can fill in and play a role. Who better than someone who has played the role on several championship-level UConn teams? Alex Karaban is continuing to improve as a shooter and knows how to play his role at a championship level. That matters for something for a Magic team that needs young talent to contribute quickly.

The Orlando Magic have a history of grabbing guys who are talented and just needed time to blossom — think Bol Bol or Markelle Fultz. Baba Miller is very much that player. The highly touted high school prospect struggled at Florida State but found himself at Cincinnati last year. He needs to improve his shooting, but his size and versatility are very Magic-coded.

The Orlando Magic are young, and you would think that means they are energetic. But most of their youth is used in defense and in horizontal speed, as they are not an above-the-rim team. Getting a big leaper and athlete in Tobi Lawal would make him unique on the roster. He still has work to do to grow as a player, making him a long-term project.