The NBA Draft Lottery has officially set the stage for the 2026 NBA Draft, and the basketball world is buzzing with anticipation. The Washington Wizards emerged as the night's biggest winners, securing the coveted first overall pick—a feat not achieved by the league's worst team since 2019. Meanwhile, the Indiana Pacers were left reeling as their pick slipped to the Clippers after falling outside the top four, while the Brooklyn Nets and Sacramento Kings also walked away disappointed.
One of the most intriguing storylines revolves around the Memphis Grizzlies, who landed the third overall pick. With Ja Morant potentially on the move this summer, this selection could reshape the franchise's future and add even more drama to an already unpredictable offseason.
In our first mock draft of the spring, Rotoworld writers Raphielle Johnson and Kurt Helin break down the top picks and what they mean for each team. Here's a glimpse at the early projections:
1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa, Forward, BYU
For the second consecutive year, a team featuring Anthony Davis on its roster has claimed the No. 1 pick. While the Wizards have stockpiled young wings in recent drafts, passing on a talent like Dybantsa would be a mistake. The former BYU star impressed with his versatility on offense—whether handling the ball or playing off it—and his length and athleticism make him a defensive asset on the wing. Washington simply can't afford to overlook a player of his caliber.
2. Utah Jazz: Boogie Peterson, Guard, USC
Jazz fans may have dreamed of pairing Dybantsa with their roster, but Peterson is a thrilling consolation prize. His explosive scoring ability alongside Keyonte George could form a dynamic backcourt for years to come. Peterson has recently shed light on past cramping issues that affected his performance, and if he's truly solved that problem, he might be the best shot creator and maker in this draft class.
3. Memphis Grizzlies: Cameron Boozer, Forward, Duke
There's a growing consensus among scouts that Dybantsa, Peterson, and Boozer have separated themselves from the rest of the pack. However, the Grizzlies have never been afraid to zig when others zag. If they believe Boozer is their guy, they won't hesitate to pull the trigger, regardless of conventional wisdom.
Stay tuned as the draft picture continues to evolve—this is just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling lead-up to the 2026 NBA Draft.