The Washington Wizards just hit the jackpot at the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, securing the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 2010. But here’s the twist—unlike last year’s draft, where Cooper Flagg was the clear-cut top choice, this year’s class is loaded with three elite prospects, each bringing something unique to the table. With about six weeks to decide, the Wizards face a franchise-defining choice.

The consensus top-three candidates are AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cameron Boozer. All three are potential stars, but they offer very different skill sets. For a Washington team that already features veteran stars Anthony Davis and Trae Young, plus young talent like Alex Sarr and Tre Johnson, the decision comes down to fit and long-term vision.

Let’s break down how each prospect could slot into the Wizards’ lineup.

AJ Dybantsa has long been the slight favorite to go No. 1, and for good reason. His elite scoring ability and impressive length make him a natural fit alongside Davis and Young. Dybantsa is an NBA-ready talent who can create his own shot and stretch the floor—exactly what you want in a modern wing. Pairing him with Trae Young’s playmaking could create a dynamic scoring duo for years to come.

Darryn Peterson brings a different flavor. He’s a high-energy guard with explosive athleticism and a relentless motor. Peterson excels in transition and can lock down opponents on defense. For a Wizards team that needs more two-way production, he could be the perfect complement to Young’s offensive flair.

Cameron Boozer, the son of NBA veteran Carlos Boozer, is a polished big man with a high basketball IQ. He’s a force in the paint, both scoring and rebounding, and has shown solid passing skills. With Anthony Davis already anchoring the frontcourt, Boozer could either provide depth or allow the Wizards to experiment with a twin-tower lineup.

Each prospect brings a different path forward. Dybantsa offers the safest bet as a scoring wing, Peterson adds defensive intensity, and Boozer provides inside strength. The Wizards’ front office has a tough but enviable decision ahead. One thing’s for sure: whoever they pick, the 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a game-changer for Washington.