Wizards projected to select AJ Dybantsa with top pick in 2026 NBA draft

Washington is favored to take BYU forward AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick, according to Gary Parrish’s final mock draft. Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 freshman who averaged 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game, has moved to -550 odds in betting markets. Parrish notes his scoring ability and size could make him a cornerstone for the Wizards alongside Trae Young and Anthony Davis, potentially returning the team to the postseason.

Utah is projected to select Kansas guard Darryn Peterson at No. 2. Peterson posted 20.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game and is described as having the highest ceiling of the draft class, though questions remain about his consistency.

Memphis is expected to pick Duke forward Cameron Boozer at No. 3, aiming to rebuild after recent roster changes. The Grizzlies hope Boozer can become the new face of the franchise.

Chicago’s likely No. 4 selection is North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson, while the Los Angeles Clippers may trade down from the No. 5 spot where Illinois guard Keaton Wagler is projected.

The trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miami, which also sent Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware to the Heat, gives Milwaukee a first-round pick that Parrish assigns to German forward Hannes Steinbach at No. 16.

Other notable projections include Sacramento selecting SEC Player of the Year Acuff at No. 7, Atlanta taking Houston guard Kingston Flemings at No. 8, and Dallas drafting Arizona guard Brayden Burries at No. 9.

Parrish’s mock also outlines potential moves, such as the Nets possibly targeting Louisville guard Brown at No. 6 and the Thunder considering Mexican wing Karim Lopez at No. 17, though these picks could be traded.

Overall, the mock reflects a draft shaped by the Antetokounmpo trade and emphasizes the Wizards’ pursuit of a high-scoring wing in Dybantsa.