CBS Sports grades every first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft
CBS Sports analyst Cameron Salerno assigned grades to all 30 first-round selections, highlighting a strong top tier led by AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer.
The 2026 NBA Draft concluded with a first round that featured a deep pool of prospects, including a highly touted trio of AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer. The Washington Wizards selected Dybantsa with the No. 1 pick, the Utah Jazz took Peterson at No. 2 and the Memphis Grizzlies chose Boozer at No. 3.
CBS Sports analyst Cameron Salerno graded each selection based on upside, fit and the resources teams used to acquire the picks. Dybantsa received an A for his scoring ability and developmental potential, while Peterson also earned an A for his shooting and fit alongside Keyonte George in Utah’s rebuilt backcourt. Boozer was given an A+ for his combination of size, skill and the highest floor among the draft class.
Other notable grades included an A for Chicago’s Caleb Wilson, a versatile forward from North Carolina, and a B+ for the Los Angeles Clippers’ point guard Keaton Wagler, who was praised for his shooting instincts and basketball IQ. The Brooklyn Nets’ selection of point guard Mikel Brown earned a B, and the Sacramento Kings’ pick of Darius Acuff received an A-.
The analysis also highlighted several later-round concerns, such as the shooting consistency of Kingston Flemings (B+) and the defensive questions surrounding several guards. Overall, Salerno’s report card reflects a draft class with strong top-five talent and a mix of high-upside and role-player prospects throughout the round.
