NBA mock draft 2026: The real drama starts at No. 5 with the LA Clippers

It’s NBA Draft week, and time for The Athletic’s live NBA mock draft.

For the next two days, this is your home to find where I’m predicting each player will be taken. So if you’re repeatedly refreshing to find new information, this is the link you’ll want to bookmark.

This draft is considered a strong one at the top and throughout the lottery, although withdrawals of college players lured by NIL riches have substantially impacted the depth of the class. Most executives I’ve spoken with have first-round grades on about 20 to 25 players and think the final 20 picks of the draft could result in some interesting selections. They say teams could be making deals with players ahead of time to lock them in on two-way contracts, as they don’t see much difference in talent level between players ranked from, say, No. 45 to No. 100.

This year seems to be much more active with trade discussions than I can remember. Now, it’s worth noting that teams tend to be aggressive in discussing trades for draft picks before the draft if only to understand what their options will be on the night of the event. NBA teams — typically, at least — don’t just come up with trade frameworks out of nowhere. They’re in communication with one another in the days leading up to the event, coming up with scenarios depending on how the board shakes out. So when you see that teams have discussed these picks, it’s worth understanding that these talks are oftentimes just pre-planning for potential scenarios.

A few notes before the mock:

• Each first-round pick features a link to the in-depth scouting report in my NBA Draft Guide on that player.

• Ages are as of Tuesday.

• Heights are from the NBA Draft Combine in May.

• NBA executives, scouts, agents, players and other sources across the basketball ecosystem were granted anonymity in exchange for speaking freely about prospects.

1. Washington Wizards

I’m sticking with Dybantsa here for now, as we have since lottery night. The team has done a lot of research into Peterson to understand everything it needs to know about him. But Dybantsa remains the pick as the most likely option for the Wizards and the best fit for what the team needs, according to league-wide sources.

Why AJ Dybantsa is the no. 1 prospect in this year’s NBA Draft

Sam Vecenie

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Washington’s lead executive Michael Winger said in an interview with the local NBC station in Washington that leadership is an attribute he looks for in a No. 1 pick. Peterson is considered an exceptionally hard worker by all sources connected to him, but his leadership ability has been questioned, as he’s regarded as a quiet introvert. Peterson is a stone-cold killer on the court in terms of competitiveness. But Dybantsa is viewed by NBA sources as a more dynamic personality with leadership tendencies, both in the locker room and in the community.

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Overall 1 Wing 1

AJ Dybantsa BYU

Elite tools for a wing; could easily become a top-10 NBA player.

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2. Utah Jazz

Darryn Peterson | 6-5 guard | 19 years old | Kansas

We’re still sticking with Peterson, the same person we’ve had plugged in here since lottery night, for now. Sources indicate that the Jazz h ave considered several different options at No. 2. Do not expect, however, that connections to Cameron Boozer through his father Carlos (who works in the Jazz front office) or Dybantsa through team owner Ryan Smith at BYU will be the deciding factor here.

Why Darryn Peterson’s best basketball is still ahead of him

Sam Vecenie

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For my money, Peterson remains the best fit of any player on the board as a legit secondary ballhandler to play with Keyonte George and Ace Bailey as young offensive perimeter players. He’s the kind of dynamic scorer who would fit remarkably well in Will Hardy’s offensive scheme.

Overall 3 Guard 1

Darryn Peterson Kansas

An elite shooter with All-NBA scoring guard upside, despite his strange Kansas year.

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3. Memphis Grizzlies

Cameron Boozer | 6-8 forward | 18 years old | Duke

If Boozer is on the board, I would be stunned to see Memphis pass on him. He ticks all the boxes that the organization has looked for in its draft picks over the years under president of basketball operations Zach Kleiman.

Why Cameron Boozer produces and wins at every level

Sam Vecenie

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The Grizzlies have been consistently better at drafting than any other team in the league, having hit on Desmond Bane, Santi Aldama, Jaylen Wells, Cam Spencer and even guys such as GG Jackson and Vince Williams Jr. beyond pick No. 20, let alone past lottery picks Zach Edey, Cedric Coward, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant. Typically, the Grizzlies like skilled players who produce well for their age and possess high-level basketball IQ, while also being extremely competitive. Boozer is elite in all of those categories. He is almost the prototypical player Memphis wants to build around as it enters a new era following the trades of Jackson and Bane.

Overall 2 Forward 1

Cameron Boozer Duke

Versatile, skilled forward with a brilliant offensive mind; needs to find a role on defense.

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4. Chicago Bulls

Caleb Wilson | 6-9 wing | 19 years old | North Carolina

League sources believe Wilson would be an easy pick for Chicago if he gets to No. 4. The Bulls worked out other players, including Darius Acuff Jr., Kingston Flemings, and Nate Ament, but it would be a significant upset if any of them were selected here.

Caleb Wilson blends power, explosiveness and coordination in a way other players can’t

Sam Vecenie

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Wilson would fit well at the four next to Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis as the team’s long-term building blocks and give the Bulls a solid framework with which to start using their cap space this summer to acquire veterans, while also trying to accumulate more assets.

Overall 4 Forward 2

Caleb Wilson North Carolina

Explosive athlete whose ceiling is as high as the top three, but has more flaws.

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5. LA Clippers (via IND)

Keaton Wagler | 6-5 wing | 19 years old | Illinois

This is seen as where the draft really starts. The two names I’ve heard most associated with the Clippers at No. 5 are Mikel Brown Jr. and Wagler. Why? The team seems to be prioritizing at least some size next to Darius Garland in the backcourt, and Brown and Wagler are bigger options than the other highly-rated guards. Even though both are skinny, NBA executives feel like they have more room to grow into their frames than Flemings and Acuff, as Flemings is more slight and Acuff has been basically the same size for the last few years.

How Keaton Wagler came from out of nowhere to become a top NBA prospect

Sam Vecenie

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I believe Wagler is the best fit of the four guards here, too, thanks to his ability to play both on and off the ball. Sources have indicated that Wagler has added muscle to his frame during the pre-draft process. He came to Illinois at 168 pounds and weighed 188 pounds at the combine; his frame should continue adding strength over the next few years.

The Clippers have also had discussions about trading down, although sources indicate that they do seem set on making an early draft selection this year. Multiple league sources have speculated that if the Clippers look to trade down, don’t be surprised to see them get another pick in this year’s draft — just in case the NBA’s investigation into the Aspiration scandal results in the loss of future picks. If they do trade the pick, I’ve heard Wagler the most out of the players that other teams would be chasing. If the Clippers were to move down, Brayden Burries would be a potential fit.

Overall 6 Guard 3

Keaton Wagler Illinois

Superb processor with lethal jumper and unselfish mindset; a hard guard not to love.

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6. Brooklyn Nets

Mikel Brown Jr. | 6-4 guard | 20 years old | Louisville

The one consistent piece of information is that Brooklyn will take the highest-graded player on its board, regardless of position. Even though the team selected three point guards last season, it hasn’t ruled that position out. The Nets believe they simply need to get more talent in the door. And recently, the name I’ve heard most connected with Brooklyn is indeed Brown’s. The Nets have certainly done a significant amount of legwork into his evaluation, and he has impressed teams throughout the pre-draft process, convincing teams that his struggles with efficiency last season at Louisville largely stemmed from his back injury. Teams I’ve spoken with have cleared Brown medically and seem to have no concerns about that injury.

Why Mikel Brown Jr. is one of the highest upside guards in the 2026 NBA Draft

Sam Vecenie

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Tennessee wing Nate Ament’s name continues to pop up in conversation for this spot, and I’ve heard from a couple of other teams in this range that the Nets have discussed sliding back a few slots in the lottery. However, they can’t afford to move too far down if they indeed want Brown, as the Clippers, Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks all seem to have some degree of interest in him. If Brown goes to the Clippers at No. 5, that would make more sense for Ament being the pick here. Ament has also been heavily connected with the Milwaukee Bucks at No. 10.

Overall 10 Guard 6

Mikel Brown Jr. Louisville

A home-run hitter of a lead guard who could stand to settle for singles at times.

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7. Sacramento Kings

Darius Acuff Jr. | 6-2 guard | 19 years old | Arkansas

The Kings are likely to stay at No. 7 and select the best guard who falls to them. In this case, they seemingly get their wish of Acuff being on the board; most teams below this slot are working under the impression that the Kings are Acuff’s floor.

Darius Acuff is the most polished point guard in the 2026 NBA Draft

Sam Vecenie

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Sacramento general manager Scott Perry has a relationship with the Acuff family, as he coached Eastern Kentucky in the 1990s when Darius Acuff Sr. played for the Colonels. The team is in desperate need of an offensive engine at the lead guard slot. If Acuff is available here, it would be a massive win for the Kings.

Overall 5 Guard 2

Darius Acuff Jr. Arkansas

The most polished teenage guard to enter the league in years; defense is the big question.

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8. Atlanta Hawks (via NOP)

Kingston Flemings | 6-3 guard | 19 years old | Houston

League sources say the Hawks are the most active team in discussing trade scenarios. They completed a deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night to acquire Aaron Wiggins into the trade exception they generated when they dealt Luke Kennard to the Los Angeles Lakers at the deadline. Sources have said Atlanta is discussing both trade-up and trade-down scenarios. But it also could just stay here and take the player it wants if he remains on the board.

Why Kingston Flemings is the point guard NBA teams dream of

Sam Vecenie

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If they don’t trade the pick, Flemings’ ability to pressure the rim with his speed would fit wonderfully with Jalen Johnson, Jonathan Kuminga and other high-level athletes on the Hawks’ roster. Atlanta could use a downhill, athletic guard next to the now-re-signed McCollum, Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Much like many of the guards, Flemings is seen as unlikely to fall outside the top 10.

Part of trying to figure out what happens on draft night is being an investigator and piecing together all of the different intel that you get. The deal that makes the most logical sense, to me at least, is the Hawks moving up from No. 8 to No. 5, using pick No. 23 and maybe some other small asset. The Clippers want to make an early pick, and sources indicate that they have interest in Brayden Burries. Sources for other teams have also connected the Hawks as a team that likes Wagler. Both these teams have also been noted by sources to be exploring deals moving in these respective directions. This is speculative and not based on any specific reporting, but it tracks as a sensible outcome.

Overall 7 Guard 4

Kingston Flemings Houston

All-Star upside with lightning-quick first step; must improve his gathers and shooting.

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9. Dallas Mavericks

Morez Johnson Jr. | 6-9 big | 20 years old | Michigan

With Dusty May being hired as the Mavericks’ new coach on Monday, league sources speculated about which Michigan player could follow him, as Johnson, Yaxel Lendeborg and Aday Mara are realistic options at No. 9. Johnson’s name is the one I got the most if the Mavericks decide to bring along one of May’s players from Ann Arbor, but new front office leaders Masai Ujiri and Mike Schmitz have researched a wide variety of players. The Mavericks have also explored trading down.

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Johnson continues to draw excitement from teams. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him be the top big off the board, and his range starts as early as No. 8 with Atlanta. His floor seems to be No. 15 with Chicago, but it seems unlikely he’ll get that far. One question teams often ask players who come in for workouts and have been out on the circuit for a while is, “Which other prospect has impressed you?” The Michigan big man has been a popular answer.

Overall 11 Big 1

Morez Johnson Jr. Michigan

A versatile frontcourt defender who can roam the perimeter and destroy the glass.

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10. Milwaukee Bucks

Nate Ament | 6-10 wing/forward | 19 years old | Tennessee

The Bucks are obviously another team that could make significant moves via trade, with the league waiting to find out if a Giannis Antetokounmpo deal gets done before the draft. The team has been doing due diligence into the lead guards, including Flemings, Anderson, Labaron Philon Jr. and Brown. Ultimately, I think if one of the top lead guards were to fall to No. 10, the Bucks would take that swing. Burries would be another potential name. I’ve also heard Hannes Steinbach’s name as an option here, and a few league sources have mentioned this being the top of Cameron Carr’s range.

But the name I get connected most with this slot is Ament. He is that kind of swing as a big wing, and the team has a lot of history valuing these types of players. Several sources have also pointed to owner Jimmy Haslam’s connection to Tennessee, as he’s a large donor to the school. On June 4, the Haslam family gave $130 million to the university, the largest gift in school history.

Overall 14 Forward 4

Nate Ament Tennessee

Can handle and pass at 6-10 but lacks strength and efficiency; upside is tantalizing.

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11. Golden State Warriors

Brayden Burries | 6-4 guard | 20 years old | Arizona

Burries worked out with Golden State last week and is seen as a potential fit with the Warriors as a perimeter creator who can help take some of the burden off Stephen Curry as an offensive driver, while also fitting in nicely on defense as a stout, switchable guard.

Why Brayden Burries is built for the modern NBA

Sam Vecenie

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This would be a home run for the Warriors if he fell to No. 11. But I wonder if there would be some synergy to a team, even including the Warriors, moving up to No. 9 still to get him if Dallas does decide to trade down. A number of teams in this range of the draft would love to have a two-way guard like this who can dribble, pass, shoot and defend.

Overall 8 Guard 5

Brayden Burries Arizona

An aggressive scoring guard who makes shots, attacks in transition and defends fiercely.

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12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)

Aday Mara | 7-3 big | 21 years old | Michigan

The high-IQ center who can finish above the rim, block shots and pass would fit exceedingly well within Oklahoma City’s scheme as a potential long-term Isaiah Hartenstein replacement if the Thunder don’t come to a long-term agreement with him.

Sources have recently brought up Mara’s conditioning more regularly, wondering if he’ll be more than a 25-minute-per-game guy at his peak. Michigan did an excellent job utilizing him in short stints to keep him fresh, allowing him to be at his best throughout the season. Coaches won’t be as excited about that luxury in the uptempo NBA, but don’t expect to see Mara slip out of the top 14. OKC could weaponize him in that time frame more effectively than most teams.

The Thunder are said to be exploring several options, from trade-ups to trade-outs to standing pat. They’ve already executed one deal to cut their impending luxury tax bill, moving Wiggins to the Hawks for two future second-round picks.

Overall 13 Big 3

Aday Mara Michigan

A special passer at 7-foot-3 who finishes efficiently and protects the rim.

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13. Miami Heat

Cameron Carr | 6-5 guard | 21 years old | Baylor

Carr’s range feels like it’s anywhere from No. 10 to No. 21. He’s a silky smooth wing with shot-making ability, something that has tended to work well within Miami’s offense. And if the Heat end up looking for a new home for Tyler Herro — in an Antetokounmpo deal or something else if they lose out on that sweepstakes — Carr would be a strong replacement. But league sources are not sure how Miami will lean if it keeps this pick.

Overall 18 Wing 3

Cameron Carr Baylor

Terrific 3-point shooter and attacker; needs to get stronger and more active on defense.

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14. Charlotte Hornets

Hannes Steinbach | 6-10 big | 20 years old | Washington

Steinbach is unlikely to slip out of the lottery, and he would provide the toughness and physicality that the Hornets need at center. He’s already about 250 pounds and comes in at nearly 7-foot in shoes, on top of being arguably the best rebounder in the class. The Hornets have put a premium on analytics and winning the possession battle under this front office and coaching staff, something that Steinbach would help with.

Overall 12 Big 2

Hannes Steinbach Washington

Starting-caliber center with terrific hands, frame and footwork who will crash the glass.

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15. Chicago Bulls (via POR)

Yaxel Lendeborg | 6-9 big | 23 years old | Michigan

Teams across the league are unsure of Lendeborg’s draft range. His pre-draft workouts have not gone particularly well so far, and he’s dealt with an ankle injury that is not seen as a long-term issue. He also brings a specific and unique personality type, as sources indicate he has a lot of energy and not much of a filter.

Yaxel Lendeborg is one of the best high-leverage role player bets in the 2026 NBA Draft

Sam Vecenie

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This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Lendeborg’s teammates at Michigan liked him. He’s been open about how his practice habits were not particularly strong when he first arrived in Ann Arbor last offseason, but they improved throughout the year. I still have him as a top-10 prospect, but he might not be a fit for every NBA front office.

He is a versatile player type that new Bulls president of basketball operations Bryson Graham is prioritizing, as Lendeborg is massive, athletic and skilled. I love his potential fit with Giddey, Wilson and Buzelis thanks to his ability to defend at the point of attack and get out in transition at a high level. This would be a tremendous match if he fell to No. 15.

Overall 9 Forward 3

Yaxel Lendeborg Michigan

Versatile two-way forward who is older but possesses elite tools and winning mindset.

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16. Memphis Grizzlies (via PHX)

Christian Anderson Jr. | 6-1 guard | 20 years old | Texas Tech

The Grizzlies are always a threat to move up and acquire the player they want from the middle of the first round, having done so to draft Bane, Aldama, Brandon Clark and Coward in the past. Given their massive stash of draft-pick capital following the Jackson and Bane trades, they are armed with the assets to do so this year, too. If there is a specific player they want who falls down the board, I wouldn’t be stunned to see them go get that player.

Anderson has impressed in pre-draft workouts with his shooting ability, feel for the game and willingness to give effort on defense. He seems to have helped himself as teams get to know him, despite his lack of size. This is a name I’ve gotten as high as No. 10, and the Grizzlies could also use one more ball-screen playmaker with a Ja Morant trade seemingly likely to occur this summer.

Overall 17 Guard 7

Christian Anderson Texas Tech

The best shooter in the class; can he create rim pressure and defend at his size?

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17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via PHI)

Dailyn Swain | 6-7 wing | 20 years old | Texas

As mentioned above, OKC is exploring all options. But I’ve heard Swain’s name with the Thunder since the combine, and it’s easy to see why, given how strongly they prioritize rim pressure and players with positional size, strength and length. Swain possesses all those attributes, even if his jumper remains a work in progress. If he doesn’t go here, I do think there is a real shot he slips into the 20s.

Overall 15 Wing 2

Dailyn Swain Texas

A dynamic driver and finisher who must improve his defense and jump shot to be a starter.

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18. Charlotte Hornets (via PHX)

Allen Graves | 6-8 forward | 19 years old | Santa Clara

I think this is too rich for Graves by about 10 slots. But I’ve heard Graves’ name a lot with the Hornets, Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs in the No. 18-20 range. These three teams care about analytics and numbers while valuing the possession game. Graves’ ability to rebound, make quick decisions on the court and shoot standstill 3-pointers would appeal to the Hornets, as would his ability to play in an aggressive defensive structure thanks to his hand-eye coordination.

One of these three teams would be an excellent landing spot for him, as they all have readymade creators and value the things that would accentuate his skills.

Overall 30 Forward 8

Allen Graves Santa Clara

High-IQ player and analytics darling who needs to maximize his body and offensive skill.

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19. Toronto Raptors

Bennett Stirtz | 6-3 guard | 22 years old | Iowa

The Raptors need some offensive juice and shooting next to Scottie Barnes and could really use another option who can potentially help to run the offense. I’ve heard Stirtz’s name in a tight window from No. 16 to No. 21, with virtually all those teams seeming to have a significant level of interest. Toronto could have its pick of several guards or wings here, including Stirtz, Anderson, Philon and Carr.

Overall 21 Guard 10

Bennett Stirtz Iowa

Epitome of a floor general and a terrific shooter; can he separate from NBA defenders?

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20. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)

Karim Lopez | 6-8 wing | 19 years old | New Zealand Breakers

Lopez has largely been working out for teams ahead of this range so far, feeling confident in his status as a top-15 selection. I’m not convinced of that. When I speak to teams about him, the feedback is commensurate with a mid-to-late first-rounder, as opposed to a lottery pick. He has some questions to answer as a defender and shooter, even if scouts are enticed by his rebounding and ability to drive into the lane. His range feels like it’s anywhere from No. 11 down to No. 25 or so, among the widest in the class for the guys invited to the draft green room.

The Spurs need some tough, physical rebounding ability at the four spot, and Lopez could provide that, along with the downhill driving ability they’ve valued in their picks in recent years. The organization has also prioritized positional strength, and Lopez’s frame looks like one that will fill out well in the coming years.

Overall 24 Forward 7

Karim Lopez NZ Breakers

Big and skilled for his young age, but movement and agility leave a lot to be desired.

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21. Detroit Pistons (via MIN)

Labaron Philon Jr. | 6-3 guard | 20 years old | Alabama

The Pistons would be ecstatic with this outcome. Philon’s range is fairly wide, with teams in the back half of the lottery considering him while teams in the 20s do their due diligence on him in case he slips. At least one of the top guards in this class will likely drop into this range just because of the sheer number of options.

We saw Cade Cunningham work exceedingly well with a smaller guard next to him during the 2025 playoff run, as Dennis Schröder was a terrific running mate for him. Philon brings similar attributes, while also being able to shoot and get in transition with speed. Finding another playmaking guard to lessen Cunningham’s burden is seen as a major priority for the Pistons this summer.

Overall 20 Guard 9

Labaron Philon Jr. Alabama

Highly skilled guard who’s pro-ready but lacks explosiveness and size.

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22. Philadelphia 76ers (via HOU)

Chris Cenac Jr. | 6-10 big | 19 years old | Houston

Cenac has been an exceptionally difficult prospect to find a home for. The consensus seems to be that he’s going to go somewhere in the top 20, and he was among the second batch of players invited to the green room. However, the feedback I get from teams is that he’s more like a late first-rounder. He’s seen as a high-upside swing for teams that can afford to be patient and wait for him to improve his feel for the game.

The 76ers need another big, and Cenac could potentially slide to the four at times if his feel for the game improves. But he is more of a project than some of the other players the 76ers could take. This is a very difficult team to mock right now, as sources around the league are still trying to figure out what new head of basketball operations Mike Gansey’s type will be.

Overall 25 Big 5

Chris Cenac Jr. Houston

A project with immense tools who’s worth a first-round pick because of the high upside.

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23. Atlanta Hawks (via CLE)

Tarris Reed Jr. | 6-10 big | 22 years old | Connecticut

Reed’s range seems to be all over the 20s right now. He performed well in pre-draft workouts, with sources indicating he came into those in excellent shape and ready to showcase that he has more skill than he showcased this year at Connecticut. A few teams have noted that he shot the ball well. The Hawks could use another big and have had Reed in for a workout. His range seems to be anywhere from No. 20 with the Spurs down to No. 29 with the Cavaliers.

Overall 27 Big 6

Tarris Reed Jr. Connecticut

A versatile backup big who crushes the glass, finishes on the interior and passes well.

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24. New York Knicks

Isaiah Evans | 6-6 wing | 20 years old | Duke

The Knicks face some free-agency decisions after they ended their 53-year title drought. The biggest one involves Mitchell Robinson. Undoubtedly, they will want to keep Robinson. But whether he returns will depend on the price point and whether he’s comfortable being a backup for the rest of the prime of his career.

But don’t be surprised to see them go with a shooting wing here, either, because of the potential departures of Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson. New York also has pick No. 31 and should take a wing and a big in some order if it keeps both. Evans is a big-time shooter and was surprisingly invited to the green room.

Overall 35 Wing 6

Isaiah Evans Duke

An off-ball movement shooter with length who needs to get stronger.

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25. Los Angeles Lakers

Meleek Thomas | 6-3 wing | 19 years old | Arkansas

The Lakers are in a funky spot. They need to figure out the free-agency situations of LeBron James and Austin Reaves — among others — and whether they’ll have a significant amount of cap space this summer. It’s unclear if the organization will even have answers about those issues before the draft.

Thomas was not invited to the green room but has some fans in the back half of the first round. Undeniably, he’s an impressive offensive player who can really shoot the ball, even if his decision-making on both the offensive and defensive ends leaves something to be desired.

Overall 31 Guard 11

Meleek Thomas Arkansas

A gifted scorer and shooter whose poor defense and wild decision-making raise questions.

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26. Denver Nuggets

Koa Peat | 6-7 wing | 19 years old | Arizona

I have Peat higher than this on my personal board, but sources across the league are unsure where he slots into the class. His range seems to be quite wide, starting somewhere post-lottery and stretching into the late first round.

The Nuggets would be a tremendous fit for him long-term as a potential understudy to Aaron Gordon. Nikola Jokić’s shooting and passing would play nicely with how well he moves without the ball. One additional name that I’ve gotten for the Nuggets is Louisville guard Ryan Conwell. Teams have also said that this pick has been discussed in trades.

Overall 16 Forward 5

Koa Peat Arizona

The jump shot is a concern, but he’s a proven winner who’ll do whatever his team needs.

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27. Boston Celtics

Jayden Quaintance | 6-9 big | 18 years old | Kentucky

Quaintance is considered one of the big mysteries of draft night. Every NBA team I’ve spoken with loves Quaintance’s defensive ability and sees him as at least a borderline lottery-level talent — if he’s healthy. However, he missed nearly all of last season with lingering right knee swelling, stemming from his ACL surgery in March 2025.

Teams who have spoken with The Athletic in the last week expect Quaintance to be available in the 20s on draft night. Most believe he will still be selected in the first round because of his tantalizing defensive upside, but a couple of sources have speculated that Quaintance could still be available when the second round begins on Wednesday. He was not among the 24 players invited to the green room, a possible indication of his stock dropping.

The Celtics also fall into a similar bucket as the Hawks, Nuggets, Timberwolves and Mavericks, in that they’ve discussed moving up. There is thought to be a talent dropoff somewhere in this ballpark, and teams are trying to get ahead of it. Boston has also taken a player like this in the recent past, selecting Robert Williams III in 2018, also at No. 27.

Overall 22 Big 4

Jayden Quaintance Kentucky

Potential All-Defense big with limited offensive skill; is he healthy?

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28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET)

Ebuka Okorie | 6-1 guard | 19 years old | Stanford

This is another player with a wide range, as I’ve heard anywhere from right after the lottery to late first round. I don’t think Okorie will fall out of the first round, though, and this would be a home-run match for him.

The Timberwolves are thought to be exploring potential point guard options in the late first round, and Okorie’s ability to get to the rim would be a different skill set than the one they chose with Rob Dillingham a couple of years ago in the lottery. It’s hard for me to see Okorie falling past this point.

It’s also worth noting that Philon surprised those in NBA circles by agreeing to go to Minnesota for a workout last weekend. President of basketball operations Tim Connelly is often aggressive in trying to go up to get his guys, and Philon’s range is not thought to dip down to No. 28. The only way Connelly would have gotten Philon’s representation to agree to such a workout was if he convinced them that the Wolves could realistically move up the draft board.

Overall 19 Guard 8

Ebuka Okorie Stanford

An elite rim-pressure guard who lives in the paint; must work on passing and defense.

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29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via SAS)

Henri Veesaar | 6-11 center | 22 years old | North Carolina

The Cavaliers have to cut money from their books, and I’ve heard many teams note that Cleveland has discussed trading out of the first round to reduce the cap hold associated with this pick. I wonder if teams selecting early in the second round will target this pick in a trade.

I’ve gone with Veesaar here because the Cavs could use more depth behind Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

Overall 29 Big 8

Henri Veesaar North Carolina

A 7-footer who can dribble, pass and shoot, but will need to defend better.

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30. Dallas Mavericks (via OKC)

Sergio De Larrea | 6-6 wing | 20 years old | Valencia

De Larrea had a strong season for Valencia this season and measured exceedingly well, coming in at 6 feet 6 without shoes. He also plays the kind of style that should blend well with Boston’s scheme as a quick decision-maker, a sharp passer and a terrific shooter from distance. He can play both with and without the ball and would give the Mavericks another ballhandling option as Kyrie Irving returns from injury.

Overall 32 Guard 12

Sergio De Larrea Valencia

A secondary playmaker with length who needs to get stronger and tighten his handle.

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Second Round

31. New York Knicks (via WAS): Zuby Ejiofor | 6-8 big | 22 years old | St. John’s

32. Memphis Grizzlies (via IND): Joshua Jefferson | 6-8 forward | 22 years old | Iowa State

33. Brooklyn Nets: Ryan Conwell | 6-2 guard | 22 years old | Louisville

34. Sacramento Kings: Alex Karaban | 6-7 wing | 23 years old | Connecticut

35. San Antonio Spurs (via UTA): Jack Kayil | 6-4 guard | 20 years old | Alba Berlin

36. LA Clippers (via MEM): Bruce Thornton | 6-0 guard | 22 years old | Ohio State

37. Oklahoma City Thunder (via DAL): Emanuel Sharp | 6-3 guard | 22 years old | Houston

38. Chicago Bulls (via NOP): Baba Miller | 6-11 wing | 22 years old | Cincinnati

39. Houston Rockets (via CHI): Braden Smith | 5-10 guard | 22 years old | Purdue

40. Boston Celtics (via MIL): Richie Saunders | 6-5 wing | 24 years old | BYU

41. Miami Heat (via GSW): Felix Okpara | 6-10 big | 22 years old | Tennessee

42. San Antonio Spurs (via POR): Maliq Brown | 6-8 big | 22 years old | Duke

43. Brooklyn Nets (via LAC): Trevon Brazile | 6-10 big | 23 years old | Arkansas

44. San Antonio Spurs (via MIA): Izaiyah Nelson | 6-8 big | 22 years old | South Florida

45. Sacramento Kings (via CHA): Nick Boyd | 6-1 guard | 25 years old | Wisconsin

46. Orlando Magic: Ugonna Onyenso | 6-11 big | 22 years old | Virginia

47. Phoenix Suns (via PHI): Nick Martinelli | 6-7 wing | 22 years old | Northwestern

48. Dallas Mavericks (via PHX): Vsevolod Ishchenko | 6-7 wing | 21 years old | Lokomotiv Kuban

49. Denver Nuggets (via ATL): Tobias Jensen | 6-6 wing | 22 years old | Ratiopharm Ulm

50. Toronto Raptors: Ja’Kobi Gillespie | 6-0 guard | 22 years old | Tennessee

51. Washington Wizards (via MIN): Jaden Bradley | 6-3 guard | 22 years old | Arizona

52. LA Clippers (via CLE): Tyler Bilodeau | 6-7 forward | 22 years old | UCLA

53. Houston Rockets: Noam Yaacov | 6-1 guard | 21 years old | Oostende

54. Golden State Warriors (via LAL): Tyler Nickel | 6-6 wing | 22 years old | Vanderbilt

55. New York Knicks: Milos Uzan | 6-3 guard | 23 years old | Houston

56. Chicago Bulls (via DEN): Otega Oweh | 6-4 guard | 23 years old | Kentucky

57. Atlanta Hawks (via BOS): Jaden Henley | 6-6 wing | 22 years old | Grand Canyon

58. New Orleans Pelicans (via DET): Trey Kaufman-Renn | 6-8 forward | 23 years old | Purdue

59. Minnesota Timberwolves (via SAS): Dillon Mitchell | 6-7 wing | 22 years old | St. John’s

60. Washington Wizards (via OKC): Mohammad Amini | 6-7 wing | 21 years old | Nancy

NBA mock draft 2026: The real drama starts at No. 5 with the LA Clippers

1. Washington Wizards

2. Utah Jazz

Darryn Peterson | 6-5 guard | 19 years old | Kansas

3. Memphis Grizzlies

Cameron Boozer | 6-8 forward | 18 years old | Duke

4. Chicago Bulls

Caleb Wilson | 6-9 wing | 19 years old | North Carolina

5. LA Clippers (via IND)

Keaton Wagler | 6-5 wing | 19 years old | Illinois

6. Brooklyn Nets

Mikel Brown Jr. | 6-4 guard | 20 years old | Louisville

7. Sacramento Kings

Darius Acuff Jr. | 6-2 guard | 19 years old | Arkansas

8. Atlanta Hawks (via NOP)

Kingston Flemings | 6-3 guard | 19 years old | Houston

9. Dallas Mavericks

Morez Johnson Jr. | 6-9 big | 20 years old | Michigan

10. Milwaukee Bucks

Nate Ament | 6-10 wing/forward | 19 years old | Tennessee

11. Golden State Warriors

Brayden Burries | 6-4 guard | 20 years old | Arizona

12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)

Aday Mara | 7-3 big | 21 years old | Michigan

13. Miami Heat

Cameron Carr | 6-5 guard | 21 years old | Baylor

14. Charlotte Hornets

Hannes Steinbach | 6-10 big | 20 years old | Washington

15. Chicago Bulls (via POR)

Yaxel Lendeborg | 6-9 big | 23 years old | Michigan

16. Memphis Grizzlies (via PHX)

Christian Anderson Jr. | 6-1 guard | 20 years old | Texas Tech

17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via PHI)

Dailyn Swain | 6-7 wing | 20 years old | Texas

18. Charlotte Hornets (via PHX)

Allen Graves | 6-8 forward | 19 years old | Santa Clara

19. Toronto Raptors

Bennett Stirtz | 6-3 guard | 22 years old | Iowa

20. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)

Karim Lopez | 6-8 wing | 19 years old | New Zealand Breakers

21. Detroit Pistons (via MIN)

Labaron Philon Jr. | 6-3 guard | 20 years old | Alabama

22. Philadelphia 76ers (via HOU)

Chris Cenac Jr. | 6-10 big | 19 years old | Houston

23. Atlanta Hawks (via CLE)

Tarris Reed Jr. | 6-10 big | 22 years old | Connecticut

24. New York Knicks

Isaiah Evans | 6-6 wing | 20 years old | Duke

25. Los Angeles Lakers

Meleek Thomas | 6-3 wing | 19 years old | Arkansas

26. Denver Nuggets

Koa Peat | 6-7 wing | 19 years old | Arizona

27. Boston Celtics

Jayden Quaintance | 6-9 big | 18 years old | Kentucky

28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET)

Ebuka Okorie | 6-1 guard | 19 years old | Stanford

29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via SAS)

Henri Veesaar | 6-11 center | 22 years old | North Carolina

30. Dallas Mavericks (via OKC)

Sergio De Larrea | 6-6 wing | 20 years old | Valencia

Second Round

Analyse

2026-06-23 20:50:04