2026 NBA Draft mock sees major lottery shifts ahead of first round
An updated mock draft shows A.J. Dybantsa likely to go first overall, with several notable changes to the lottery order as teams prepare for the June 23 draft.
An updated mock of the 2026 NBA Draft released ahead of the first round on June 23 shows significant movement in the lottery picks. The Washington Wizards are projected to select A.J. Dybantsa at No. 1, edging out Darryn Peterson, while the Utah Jazz retain the second pick for Peterson. The Memphis Grizzlies are expected to take forward Cameron Boozer at No. 3, and the Chicago Bulls are slated to pick Caleb Wilson at No. 4.
The Los Angeles Clippers, holding the No. 5 slot, are projected to choose guard Keaton Wagler over Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr., a decision attributed to size and defensive fit concerns. The Brooklyn Nets would select guard Darius Acuff at No. 6, and the Sacramento Kings are set to take guard Kingston Flemings at No. 7.
"Dybantsa feels like a cleaner fit in Washington’s projected lineup with Trae Young potentially signing a long-term deal," the analyst noted.
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s lottery position shifts, with center/forward Morez Johnson now favored at No. 12 over Michigan senior Aday Mara, who drops to No. 15 with the Chicago Bulls. Additional lottery entrants include Labaron Philon, projected at No. 13 to Miami, and Hannes Steinbach, moving up to No. 14 with Charlotte.
The mock also lists the remaining first-round selections through No. 30, highlighting a mix of freshmen and sophomores from various colleges. The analyst emphasizes that the draft order remains fluid and that trades could still alter the projected picks before the official selections are announced.
