The NBA draft lottery has reshuffled the board once again, with the Washington Wizards claiming the No. 1 overall pick. This could mark the final lottery under the current format, as the league explores new rules to discourage tanking. The Wizards, who already feature Anthony Davis and Trae Young after midseason trades, are now set to add a top prospect to their roster. They become the third team involved in a Davis trade to land the top pick, following the Pelicans in 2019 and the Mavericks in 2024.
Here’s a quick look at how the first nine lottery selections might play out in a mock draft.
1. Wizards: AJ Dybantsa (BYU, Wing, Freshman)
Dybantsa stands out as the clear top prospect in this class, thanks to his elite physical tools and versatile skill set. Pairing him with Davis, Young, Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, and others would immediately raise expectations in Washington.
2. Jazz: Darryn Peterson (Kansas, Guard, Freshman)
Sliding Peterson into a backcourt with Keyonte George, alongside Jaren Jackson Jr., Ace Bailey, and Lauri Markkanen, gives Utah a balanced mix of immediate competitiveness and long-term potential. Peterson could contribute right away.
3. Grizzlies: Cameron Boozer (Duke, Forward, Freshman)
Boozer fills the power forward hole left by the JJJ trade and becomes a focal point for the franchise. If Ja Morant remains, their two-man game could be a strong foundation for the future.
4. Bulls: Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas, PG, Freshman)
Even though Caleb Wilson is still on the board, Acuff looks like the best guard available. With Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis handling forward duties, Wilson becomes less of a priority for Chicago.
5. Clippers: Caleb Wilson (UNC, Forward, Freshman)
Wilson was ranked as the third-best prospect by some analysts. The Clippers, who acquired Indiana’s pick, would get a steal if he falls here. His energy and defensive chops alongside Kawhi Leonard would be a major boost.
6. Nets: Kingston Flemings (Houston, PG, Freshman)
Between Wagler and Flemings, Brooklyn opts for the more explosive and entertaining guard. Flemings’ athleticism fits nicely with the Nets’ rebuilding plans.
7. Kings: Keaton Wagler (Illinois, Lead Guard, Freshman)
Sacramento’s lottery misfortune continues, but Wagler offers intriguing size and playmaking at point guard. He needs development, but the Kings should hold onto this pick and invest in his growth.
8. Hawks: Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville, Guard, Freshman)
Atlanta seeks a dynamic guard, and Brown fits the bill. If his back issues stay in the past and he reduces turnovers, he could become a valuable piece for the Hawks.
9. Mavericks: Braydon Burries (Arizona, Guard, Freshman)
Dallas lands a promising guard to add to their young core. Burries brings scoring and creation ability, providing depth and future flexibility.
