The Washington Wizards have won the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, and with the order now set, the draft board is coming into focus. Here's a look at how the first few picks could shake out, complete with the storylines and stakes that make this one of the most anticipated drafts in recent memory.
1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa, F, BYU
The Wizards finally land their franchise cornerstone. At 6-foot-9, Dybantsa has an explosive blend of athleticism and skill that makes him one of the most unstoppable shot-creators to enter the league in years. He led the nation with 25.5 points per game while breaking Danny Ainge's 48-year-old BYU freshman scoring record with a 43-point outburst. He gets to the rim at will, cooks in the midrange, draws fouls at a high rate, and shows real point-forward potential. In Washington, he'll benefit from playing alongside veteran point guard Trae Young and All-Star big man Anthony Davis, taking the pressure off early in his career.
The Wizards could even be competitive sooner than expected, especially if their young core continues to develop. Alex Sarr already looks like an effective two-way big, while guards and wings like Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, Will Riley, and Bilal Coulibaly have all shown flashes. But none project to be a superstar like Dybantsa, whose ceiling will be determined by his ability to become a knockdown 3-point shooter and a more impactful defender. For now, the native of Brockton, Massachusetts, has a tremendously high floor thanks to his scoring alone, giving the Wizards a face of the franchise to build around—and the potential to be a future MVP.
2. Utah Jazz: Cooper Flagg, F, Duke
The basketball gods finally smile on Utah after the franchise never moved up in the lottery. Jazz owner and BYU alum/donor Ryan Smith might have dreamed of keeping Dybantsa in Utah—and you can't rule out trade talks to move up—but landing Flagg is a tremendous consolation prize. Flagg is a versatile two-way forward who impacts winning on both ends of the floor, with elite defensive instincts and a rapidly improving offensive game. In Utah, he'd join a young core that includes Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks, giving the Jazz a modern, switchable identity.
3. Charlotte Hornets: Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers
The Hornets need wing scoring and athleticism, and Bailey fits the bill. At 6-foot-10, he's a smooth, fluid scorer who can create his own shot and finish above the rim. Pairing him with LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller gives Charlotte an exciting, high-upside core that could compete for a play-in spot sooner rather than later.
4. Portland Trail Blazers: Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers
Harper is a big, skilled guard who can play both on and off the ball. With Scoot Henderson already in place, Harper's versatility and high basketball IQ make him an ideal backcourt partner. He's a strong finisher and a crafty playmaker who should thrive in Portland's up-tempo system.
5. Detroit Pistons: VJ Edgecombe, G, Baylor
The Pistons continue to stockpile athletic, two-way talent. Edgecombe is an explosive guard who defends with intensity and attacks the rim with ferocity. He'd slot in nicely alongside Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, giving Detroit one of the most athletic backcourts in the league.
As the draft approaches, expect plenty of movement and intrigue. But for now, the Wizards have their man—and the rest of the league is scrambling to catch up.