The 2026 NBA Draft order is officially set following Sunday's lottery—a historic event likely to be the last of its kind before the league introduces a new system next season. If the goal was to curb tanking, this year's results may have already done the trick.
While the Washington Wizards capitalized on their top odds by securing the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 2010, the lottery wasn't as kind to others. Both the Indiana Pacers and Brooklyn Nets slid out of the top three, with the Pacers losing their pick entirely—it conveyed to the LA Clippers at No. 5 due to the Ivica Zubac trade.
Still, the depth of star power at the top of this draft made every tanking effort worthwhile. A top-four selection is almost certain to land one of Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, or Caleb Wilson. With the order now locked in, here's how these elite prospects could come off the board.
1. Washington Wizards – AJ Dybantsa, Forward
A scoring forward built to contribute immediately, Dybantsa boasts the highest ceiling in this draft while also offering a remarkably high floor. The Wizards will be thrilled to add this kind of dynamic talent to their frontcourt.
2. Utah Jazz – Cameron Boozer, Forward/Center
Boozer is far more than just a bruiser in the paint. The Jazz have an obvious connection to the ACC Player of the Year, whose father was an All-Star during his time in Utah. Expect Boozer to make an immediate impact.
3. Memphis Grizzlies – Darryn Peterson, Guard
Peterson may very well turn out to be the best player in this draft. Health concerns aside, he can flat-out score the basketball—making him the perfect replacement for Ja Morant if the Grizzlies decide to move on.
4. Chicago Bulls – Caleb Wilson, Forward
Wilson is a freak athlete and monster finisher who also protects the rim on the defensive end. He's exactly the type of frontcourt presence the guard-heavy Bulls desperately need.
5. LA Clippers (via Pacers) – Kasparas Wagler, Guard
Wagler can straight up shoot the rock, knocking down nearly 40 percent of his threes during Illinois' Final Four run. The Clippers could use a volume shooter after finishing with one of the NBA's fewest 3-point attempts.
6. Detroit Pistons – Youssef Lendeborg, Forward
Lendeborg's value was on full display during Michigan's championship run, where he provided steady scoring and looked ready to contribute right away at the NBA level.