Anshari Taslim
The landscape of the 2026 NBA Draft has undergone a significant realignment, particularly after the Milwaukee Bucks’ late Monday decision to trade superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat. This seismic transaction, which saw the Bucks acquire a package primarily featuring Tyler Herro, has initiated a likely rebuild for Milwaukee and, consequently, profoundly impacted their draft strategy. As franchises across the league recalibrate their long-term visions, CBS Sports’ Gary Parrish has released his final first-round projections, reflecting these late-breaking developments and offering a comprehensive look at the potential future stars of the league.
The Washington Wizards are projected to make the first overall selection, targeting AJ Dybantsa, a freshman jumbo-wing from BYU. Dybantsa has emerged as a clear frontrunner, with betting markets placing his odds at -550 to be the No. 1 pick. The 6-foot-9, 217-pound forward is lauded as a natural scorer, having led the EYBL in points per game after his high school freshman season and subsequently the entire nation in scoring during his freshman year at BYU, averaging 25.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and shooting 33.1% from three-point range. His exceptional physical tools and scoring trajectory suggest he could one day lead the NBA in scoring. His potential arrival in Washington, alongside existing talents like Trae Young and Anthony Davis, is anticipated to inject new energy into a franchise that has not reached the postseason since 2021.
At the second spot, the Utah Jazz are expected to select Ethan Peterson, a freshman guard from Kansas. Peterson, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound prospect, is recognized for possessing the highest theoretical ceiling in this draft class, exhibiting undeniable talent. Despite flashes of brilliance where he appeared to be the best player in college basketball, his season at Kansas was marked by inconsistency and intermittent absences from the lineup, raising questions among scouts regarding his ability to consistently maximize his gifts. Nonetheless, his offensive prowess (20.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 38.2% 3P%) ensures he will be an early selection. A move to Utah would see Peterson join a competitive Jazz core, including Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., positioning the team for a potential playoff push in the Western Conference.
The Memphis Grizzlies, undergoing a significant roster overhaul with recent trades involving Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., and an anticipated departure for Ja Morant, are projected to pick Cameron Boozer at No. 3. Boozer, a 6-foot-8, 250-pound freshman forward from Duke, is seen as a sensible choice to become the new face of the franchise, especially following the tumultuous "Morant Era." Boozer’s collegiate career has been characterized by consistent excellence both on and off the court, coupled with a strong winning record, averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 39.1% from deep. His potential pairing with Zach Edey (the 2023 and 2024 CBS Sports National Player of the Year) would establish a formidable frontcourt for the Grizzlies.
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The Chicago Bulls are slated to acquire Dylan Wilson, a 6-foot-9, 210-pound freshman forward from North Carolina, with the fourth pick. Wilson is widely considered the fourth-best prospect in a distinct top-four, making this a relatively safe prediction. He is lauded for his athleticism and competitive drive, although his primary weakness lies in his non-shooting ability (25.9% 3P%), which presents a challenge in the modern NBA. Despite this, his other attributes, including 19.8 PPG, 9.4 RPG, and 2.7 APG, are deemed too significant to overlook, making him a likely fixture at the United Center.
The Los Angeles Clippers, holding the fifth pick, are identified as a prime candidate to trade down, with several franchises reportedly vying for a top-five selection. Should they retain the pick, Isaiah Wagler, a 6-foot-5, 188-pound freshman guard from Illinois, appears to be a strong fit. Wagler, a jumbo lead guard, offers versatility to play both on and off the ball. Crucially, the Clippers need a larger guard to complement Darius Garland (6-foot-1), who is under contract for two more years. Wagler, with averages of 17.9 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 4.2 APG, and an impressive 39.7% from three-point range, represents the tallest guard option available in this draft range.
The Brooklyn Nets, despite selecting four guards in the previous draft who showed limited promise as rookies for a 20-win team, are projected to take a "big swing" on Chris Brown at No. 6. Brown, a 6-foot-4, 190-pound freshman guard from Louisville, displayed star potential, notably scoring 45 points with 10 three-pointers in a game against NC State. However, his freshman season was limited to just 21 appearances due to a back issue. Averaging 18.2 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 4.7 APG, and 34.4% from three-point range, his high upside makes him an intriguing, albeit risky, prospect for the Nets.
The Sacramento Kings are widely connected to Jayden Acuff, a 6-foot-2, 185-pound freshman guard from Arkansas, at the seventh pick. Acuff, the reigning SEC Player of the Year, achieved a rare feat by leading the conference in both points (23.5 PPG) and assists (6.4 APG), a statistical accomplishment not seen since Pete Maravich in 1970. While his height and defensive shortcomings are noted, his special offensive skill set and potential for stardom make him a high-value pick. He also boasted an impressive 44% three-point shooting percentage.
The Atlanta Hawks, in need of backcourt reinforcement after trading Trae Young last season, are projected to select Chase Flemings, a 6-foot-3, 183-pound freshman guard from Houston, at the eighth spot. Flemings, despite not being the highest-rated recruit in his class, emerged as Houston’s top player, contributing to their 30-win season and Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament. His combination of athleticism and strong shooting (16.1 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.2 APG, 38.7% 3P%) suggests he could contribute to a playoff team as a rookie.
The Dallas Mavericks, fresh off luring Dusty May from Michigan as their new coach, are projected to pick Kasen Burries, a 6-foot-4, 215-pound freshman guard from Arizona, with the ninth pick. Burries, averaging 16.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, and 39.1% from three-point range, has been consistently linked to this slot. While May’s hiring has prompted speculation about Dallas potentially drafting former Wolverines like Morez Johnson or Aday Mara to build around reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, Burries remains the projected choice. A trade-down scenario is also reportedly under consideration for the Mavericks.
Milwaukee, holding the 10th pick, acquired this asset as part of the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. Now facing a rebuild, the Bucks are projected to take a "swing" on Trent Ament, a 6-foot-10, 211-pound freshman forward from Tennessee. Ament’s freshman season was inconsistent, but his upside is evident. Less than a year ago, the 2025 McDonald’s All-American was considered a potential top-five pick. Averaging 16.7 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, and 33.3% from three-point range, selecting Ament at this position could prove beneficial for a franchise embarking on a new competitive cycle.
The Golden State Warriors are projected to address their need for size in the Western Conference, where they face dominant bigs like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, by drafting Aday Mara, a 7-foot-3, 260-pound junior center from Michigan, with the 11th pick. Mara, at 21 years old, offers a blend of immediate contribution and growth potential. He demonstrated strong defensive capabilities in the NCAA Tournament, blocking and altering shots effectively, contributing to Michigan’s national championship. He also averages 12.1 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.4 APG, and shoots 30% from three. His passing ability and finishing with both hands further enhance his appeal.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, possessing an abundance of draft capital, are projected to select Morez Johnson, a 6-foot-9, 250-pound sophomore forward from Michigan. Johnson, who shot over 60% from the field and averaged 13.1 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.2 APG, and 34.3% from three, was a key player for Michigan’s national championship team. His defensive prowess, particularly as an anchor for college basketball’s top defense, is a significant asset. This pick could be crucial for OKC, especially if they need to replace Isaiah Hartenstein.
Milwaukee, with its second pick in the first round (No. 13), also acquired in the Antetokounmpo trade, is projected to continue its rebuild by drafting Jonas Steinbach, a 6-foot-10, 248-pound freshman forward from Washington. The 20-year-old German proved to be an elite rebounder on both ends during his lone season at Washington, averaging 18.5 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 1.6 APG, and 34% from three-point range. His selection signals a clear direction for the Bucks’ new era.
The Charlotte Hornets, a team with a young core featuring Brandon Miller (23) and LaMelo Ball (24), are projected to select Jalen Lendeborg, a 6-foot-9, 241-pound senior forward from Michigan, with the 14th pick. Lendeborg, who transferred from UAB and became the best player on Michigan’s national championship team, is an impressive success story. Despite his age (23) and a noted big personality, his performance, averaging 15.1 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 3.2 APG, and 37.2% from three, makes him a valuable asset for a team that won 44 games last season.
The Chicago Bulls are projected to double down on their rebuild by drafting Jaden Carr, a 6-foot-5, 184-pound sophomore guard from Baylor, at pick No. 15. Carr, who transferred from Tennessee, had a breakout season, increasing his scoring average by 14.1 points with the Bears, finishing with 18.9 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.6 APG, and 37.4% from three. His long arms and solid jumper make him an integral part of Chicago’s future alongside Dylan Wilson.
The Memphis Grizzlies, potentially seeking to package this pick for another top-10 selection, are projected to take Ethan Anderson, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound sophomore guard from Texas Tech, if they keep it (pick No. 16). Anderson, who transitioned from an intriguing freshman to a Big 12 star, averaged 18.5 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 7.4 APG, and an outstanding 41.5% on 7.9 three-point attempts. Described as the best shooter in this class, he could help offset the shooting lost when Desmond Bane was traded.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, holding the 17th pick, are another team with surplus draft capital. If they make this selection, Karim Lopez, a 6-foot-8, 222-pound power forward from Mexico, is a prospect to watch. The 19-year-old physical wing offers many positives, and if his three-point shot develops and he proves defensively capable, he could be a strong acquisition for an OKC franchise looking for its next step after reaching the Western Conference Finals.
The Charlotte Hornets are projected to pick Darius Philon, a 6-foot-3, 175-pound freshman guard from Alabama, at No. 18. Philon significantly enhanced his draft stock by returning to college, playing more on-ball, which resulted in improved assist numbers and a jump in his three-point percentage to 39.9%. Averaging 22 PPG, 3.5 RPG, and 5 APG, his talent, despite the abundance of lead guards in this draft, makes him a value pick for the Hornets.
The Toronto Raptors are projected to select Jared Stirtz, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound senior guard from Iowa, with the 19th pick. Stirtz’s journey from Division II to a potential first-round pick is notable. While concerns exist about his NBA defense, his high basketball IQ, good assist-to-turnover ratio, and reliable jumper (19.8 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 4.4 APG, 35.8% 3P%) make him a long-term NBA prospect.
The San Antonio Spurs are projected to draft Mason Graves, a 6-foot-8, 225-pound freshman forward from Santa Clara, at pick No. 20. Graves, a zero-star recruit in the Class of 2025, has become an analytical darling at 19 years old due to his ability to make shots and rebound effectively, averaging 11.8 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, and 41.3% from three. He remains a relative mystery to casual fans but is expected to secure a guaranteed contract.
The Detroit Pistons are projected to select David Okorie, a 6-foot-1, 185-pound freshman guard from Stanford, at pick No. 21. Okorie’s lack of size is less of a concern in Detroit, where he can comfortably pair with jumbo-guard Cade Cunningham. The 19-year-old led the ACC in scoring (24.3 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.8 APG, 41.3% 3P%), including five games with at least 33 points. He is an explosive driver and scorer.
The Philadelphia 76ers are projected to draft Christian Reed, a 6-foot-10, 265-pound senior center from Connecticut, at pick No. 22. Reed significantly boosted his draft stock in the NCAA Tournament, averaging 19.5 points and 13.2 rebounds while helping the Huskies reach the championship game. A traditional center, he offers value in today’s game, potentially providing depth and a long-term option as Joel Embiid’s tenure in Philadelphia continues.
The Atlanta Hawks are projected to bolster their frontcourt depth by selecting James Cenac, a 6-foot-10, 240-pound freshman forward from Houston, with the 23rd pick. Cenac, despite not being selected commensurate with his high school ranking, is a likely first-round pick after starting for a 30-7 Houston team. Averaging 9.5 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 0.7 APG, and 33.3% from three, the 19-year-old could crack the rotation if he develops quickly.
The New York Knicks are projected to draft Oliver Veesaar, a 6-foot-11, 227-pound junior forward from North Carolina, at pick No. 24. Veesaar’s decision to forgo his final year of eligibility made this draft deeper. Averaging 17 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 2.1 APG, and 42.6% from three, the talented big man could be a beneficiary for the Knicks, especially if they anticipate losing Mitchell Robinson in free agency.
The Los Angeles Lakers, continuing to build around Luka Doncic, are projected to select Will Evans, a 6-foot-6, 186-pound sophomore wing from Duke, at pick No. 25. Evans is a high-volume three-point shooter with good positional size, hitting 38% from beyond the arc over two seasons. Averaging 15 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, and 36.1% from three, he could be a valuable piece for the Lakers.
The Denver Nuggets are projected to draft Tyus Peat, a 6-foot-7, 245-pound freshman wing from Arizona, at pick No. 26. Peat significantly impacts winning and was instrumental in Arizona’s Big 12 regular-season championship and Final Four run. With good size and body, he is an intriguing prospect, averaging 14.1 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.6 APG, and 35% from three. However, his limited three-point attempts (20 in 36 games) present a challenge in the modern NBA, contributing to his wide draft range.
The Boston Celtics are projected to select David Jefferson, a 6-foot-8, 246-pound senior forward from Iowa State, at pick No. 27. Jefferson, a four-year college player, evolved from a role player at Saint Mary’s to an All-American star at Iowa State, helping them to 29 wins. Averaging 16.4 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 4.8 APG, and 34.5% from three, he is a high-floor prospect with a high basketball IQ. Improved perimeter shooting could make him a steal at this stage of the draft.
The Brooklyn Nets are projected to use their 28th pick, acquired from Minnesota in a salary dump for Julius Randle, on Ashton Quaintance, a 6-foot-9, 255-pound sophomore forward from Kentucky. Quaintance was once a projected top-10 pick before a knee injury sidelined him for 17 months. Averaging 5 PPG, 5 RPG, and 0.5 APG, his significant potential as a shot-altering big, coupled with his young age (18), makes him a calculated risk for Brooklyn.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are projected to select Omaha Ejiofor, a 6-foot-8, 245-pound senior forward from St. John’s, with the 29th pick. Ejiofor, who played for Hall of Fame coaches Bill Self and Rick Pitino, developed from a freshman averaging 5.2 minutes per game to winning Big East Player of the Year. While undersized for a center, his 7-foot-2 wingspan, high motor, and reputation as a competitor and winner (16.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 3.5 APG, 30.5% 3P%) offer him a strong chance to succeed in the NBA.
The Dallas Mavericks are projected to use their final first-round pick (No. 30) on Jayden Swain, a 6-foot-7, 211-pound junior forward from Texas. Swain followed coach Sean Miller from Xavier to Texas and became the Longhorns’ leading scorer. The 20-year-old Ohio native is an explosive athlete who impacts both ends of the court, averaging 17.3 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.6 APG, and 34.4% from three. While primarily a driver, improving his shooting consistency will be crucial for his long-term first-round justification.
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