The NBA and college basketball seasons are in full swing. Teams are taking shape, giving us a clearer picture of each squad’s outlook for the 2025-26 campaign. There’s still plenty of basketball left, but now is the perfect time to look ahead to the next wave of players who could hear their names called next June.
Using PFSN’s NBA Mock Draft Simulator, we predicted every selection in the 2026 NBA Draft. The picks are fluid, but here’s how things unfold in our latest 2026 NBA Mock Draft.
1) Dallas Mavericks
Darryn Peterson, G, Kansas
At 6’6” with a strong frame, long arms, and elite shot-creation tools, Darryn Peterson checks nearly every box for an NBA-ready guard. He’s a smooth three-level scorer who can operate as a lead initiator or play effectively off the ball, giving the Dallas Mavericks lineup flexibility alongside Cooper Flagg. His advanced handle, poise in pick-and-roll situations, and ability to finish through contact make him an instant offensive threat.
Even while working his way back from a hamstring injury, Peterson has shown the maturity, defensive focus, and versatility that set him apart from most guard prospects. He competes on the glass, defends multiple positions, and disrupts passing lanes with length and anticipation. With Kyrie Irving getting older and coming off an ACL injury, Peterson could give the Mavericks a future star in their backcourt.
2) Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)
AJ Dybantsa, F, BYU
This one has to sting for the Clippers. At 6’9” with elite length, burst, and a fluid handle, AJ Dybantsa fits the Thunder’s mold of versatile, high-ceiling wings.
He’s a dynamic three-level scorer with a strong frame, polished footwork, and can create his own shot against any defender. His transition finishing and ability to play on or off the ball would add another layer of offensive firepower alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren.
Defensively, Dybantsa’s athletic motor and quick-twitch movement let him guard multiple positions, apply pressure at the point of attack, and turn defense into offense. While his perimeter consistency is still a work in progress, his upside as a built-in-a-lab scoring wing gives Oklahoma City another potential franchise centerpiece. On an already complete roster, Dybantsa would make the Thunder’s long-term outlook even scarier.
3) Atlanta Hawks (via NOP)
Cameron Boozer, PF, Duke
The son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, Cameron Boozer combines power, polish, and basketball IQ in a way few prospects can. He’s an incredibly efficient scorer with an advanced feel for the game, comfortable operating from the post or facing up to stretch the floor. His blend of skill and consistency would give the Atlanta Hawks another reliable offensive hub and a strong complement to Jalen Johnson in the frontcourt.
On defense, Boozer’s strength, awareness, and positioning enable him to anchor possessions and communicate effectively within team concepts. While he isn’t the most explosive athlete, his effort, touch, and instincts lead to winning basketball. If Trae Young stays in Atlanta, a trio of Young, Johnson, and Boozer could form the foundation of a balanced core.
4) Portland Trail Blazers
Caleb Wilson, F, North Carolina
At 6’10”, Caleb Wilson brings the size, athleticism, and defensive range that complement the Portland Trail Blazers’ young core. He is a long, springy forward who can switch across positions, contest shots with elite timing, and ignite fast breaks with his motor. His relentless energy and rebounding stand out for a team building its identity around effort and versatility.
Offensively, Wilson thrives in transition and plays within the flow: cutting, finishing, and showing flashes of touch from midrange. His developing jumper and passing instincts suggest untapped potential as a two-way forward. With creators like Deni Avdija, Scoot Henderson, and Shaedon Sharpe around him, Wilson’s effort, adaptability, and upside could push the Blazers’ rebuild into its next phase.
5) Washington Wizards
Mikel Brown Jr., PG, Louisville
Mikel Brown Jr. brings the kind of quick-twitch athleticism and scoring burst the Wizards have long lacked in their backcourt. At 6’5”, he’s a dynamic guard who can collapse defenses with his first step, create shots for himself and others, and confidently pull up from deep. His blend of speed, creativity, and on-ball flair makes him an ideal fit for a franchise still searching for its offensive engine.
While Brown’s efficiency has fluctuated, his skill set stands out on film. He is learning to balance aggression with playmaking, demonstrating improved control and vision in pick-and-roll situations. For Washington, his upward trajectory and ability to thrive on and off the ball offer a real path to building around a guard with top-five upside.
6) Indiana Pacers
Koa Peat, F, Arizona
Koa Peat’s combination of strength, skill, and winning mentality could fit seamlessly into the Indiana Pacers’ fast-paced, team-oriented system. He’s a do-it-all forward who plays with both finesse and physicality, capable of attacking mismatches, creating for teammates, and setting the tone with energy and toughness. His strong start as a freshman at Arizona only reinforces his case as a high-lottery talent built for long-term impact.
While his jumper and off-ball defense are still developing, Peat’s versatility and relentless motor make him an ideal complement to Tyrese Haliburton. He can defend multiple positions, clean the glass, and punish teams inside while improving as a playmaker. The Pacers need two-way stability and frontcourt star power. Peat fits the profile of a high-floor performer ready for the next level.
7) Brooklyn Nets
Nate Ament, F, Tennessee
At 6’9”, Nate Ament offers the size, mobility, and skill that align with the Brooklyn Nets’ desire for versatility. He is a smooth-moving wing who handles the ball like a guard, shoots with range, and uses his high release to score over contests. His floor-spacing and playmaking would create driving lanes for a young Nets roster still shaping its offensive identity.
On the other end, Ament’s length, agility, and anticipation give him the tools to guard multiple positions and jump passing lanes. As he adds strength and improves his footwork, his two-way potential looks increasingly convincing. With his blend of shooting, feel, and upside, Ament projects as a high-ceiling developmental piece who could evolve into an impactful starter in Brooklyn’s future core.
8) Sacramento Kings
Labaron Philon, PG, Alabama
Labaron Philon’s polish and creativity make him an ideal piece for a Sacramento Kings team rebuilding its backcourt after trading De’Aaron Fox last season. The 6’4” guard has taken a significant leap at Alabama, blending quick-twitch athleticism with refined passing instincts and improved perimeter touch. He thrives attacking downhill, collapsing defenses, and bending coverages with his poise and control in the pick-and-roll.
Defensively, Philon competes with energy and anticipation, using quick hands to stay active at the point of attack. He still needs to build strength, but his maturity and versatility translate to the NBA game. With his scoring instincts, floor vision, and creativity, Philon has the tools to become the Kings’ offensive engine.
9) Charlotte Hornets
Jayden Quaintance, PF, Kentucky
At 18, Jayden Quaintance brings long-term upside to a Charlotte Hornets frontcourt, that needs more defensive bite and athleticism. He’s springy and mobile, with the length and instincts to protect the rim, switch onto smaller players, and clean the glass with energy. We haven’t seen him with Kentucky yet, but his production and defensive playmaking at Arizona State showed rare maturity and upside.
On offense, Quaintance is still refining his jumper and decision-making, but his touch around the rim and flashes as a face-up creator fit with LaMelo Ball’s playmaking. He doesn’t need heavy usage to make an impact, thriving as a lob target, roller, and cutter. For a team seeking long-term frontcourt balance alongside Miles Bridges and Ryan Kalkbrenner, Quaintance’s athletic tools and ceiling make him an exciting developmental swing.
10) Oklahoma City Thunder (via UTA)
Chris Cenac Jr., C, Houston
Chris Cenac Jr. fits right in with Oklahoma City’s vision of length, versatility, and skill across all positions. At 6’10”, he moves with rare fluidity, runs the floor like a wing, and finishes with authority above the rim. His defensive range, anchored by his timing as a shot blocker and the ability to guard in space, would complement Chet Holmgren and give the Thunder even more switchability.
Offensively, Cenac’s developing face-up game and soft shooting touch offer intriguing upside. He’s shown growing confidence from midrange and beyond, with flashes of ball-handling and passing that hint at more to come. Still a bit raw, Cenac’s mobility, work ethic, and two-way potential make him a fitting long-term piece for a Thunder team built on versatility and development.
11) Milwaukee Bucks
Kingston Flemings, PG, Houston
After moving on from Damian Lillard, Kingston Flemings gives the Milwaukee Bucks the dynamic guard play they’ve been missing. The explosive Houston standout has proven he can run an offense with pace, create off the dribble, and finish above the rim. His strength, shooting touch, and poise as a decision-maker would help stabilize Milwaukee’s backcourt and ease pressure on Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Flemings brings adaptability, able to be a primary initiator or slide into a complementary role alongside stars. His athleticism and shot creation unlock layers of offense the Bucks have lacked when Giannis is off the floor. With his scoring, control, and upside, Flemings has the tools to be a long-term fit and a reason for Milwaukee’s franchise player to stay invested.
12) Memphis Grizzlies
Karim Lopez, SF, NZ Breakers
At 6’8”, Karim Lopez brings the size, maturity, and international polish that fit the Memphis Grizzlies’ system. The Mexican forward’s experience in the NBL’s Next Stars program has sharpened his perimeter game, making him a confident shooter and unselfish offensive connector. His poise, strength, and feel for the game suggest he could contribute early alongside Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
On defense, Lopez embodies the Grizzlies’ identity with his motor, length, and versatility. He switches across positions, rebounds in traffic, and communicates well. As his outside shooting continues to evolve, Lopez projects as a reliable two-way forward with the upside to become one of the NBA’s most impactful international success stories.
13) Chicago Bulls
Tounde Yessoufou, SG/SF, Baylor
Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou gives the Chicago Bulls the explosiveness and two-way energy their wing rotation has lacked. At 6’6”, he is a physically imposing athlete who attacks the rim with power, finishes through contact, and runs the floor with purpose. His improved handle and growing perimeter confidence make him more than a slasher, showing the potential to become a true three-level scorer.
Defensively, Yessoufou embodies toughness, switching across positions, chasing scorers, and crashing the glass with effort. His strength and motor set the tone on both ends, giving the Bulls another high-energy presence alongside Coby White and Josh Giddey. With continued skill development, Yessoufou projects as a long-term two-way wing built for the NBA.
14) Oklahoma City Thunder (via PHI)
Bennett Stirtz, PG, Iowa
Bennett Stirtz would bring smart, steady guard play to Oklahoma City. The former Drake standout has carried his momentum to Iowa, proving his shooting and decision-making translate against tougher competition. He’s a composed ball handler who thrives in pick-and-rolls, operates efficiently in the midrange, and knocks down threes with confidence.
While not the most explosive athlete, Stirtz’s pace control, basketball IQ, and selfless style make him an ideal plug-and-play piece next to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He can anchor second units or stretch the floor as a secondary playmaker, adding balance and reliability. Stirtz’s polished, versatile game is a natural fit for a contending Thunder team.
15) Golden State Warriors
Braylon Mullins, SG, UConn
At 6’6”, Braylon Mullins offers the size, shooting, and feel that align with the Golden State Warriors’ movement-heavy offense. One of the best pure shooters in his class, he spaces the floor with a lightning-quick release and thrives running off screens or cutting into open pockets. His shooting range and smart off-ball play would be a significant asset alongside Stephen Curry and the Warriors’ backcourt.
On defense, Mullins competes with energy and sound fundamentals, using his length and anticipation to stay active on the perimeter. While not an elite athlete, his toughness and instincts help him impact games beyond the box score. As his frame fills out and his off-the-dribble creation grows, Mullins profiles as a high-value rotation shooter with long-term starter potential.
16) Boston Celtics
Thomas Haugh, PF, Florida
Thomas Haugh checks all the boxes for a Boston Celtics team looking to replenish its frontcourt depth. The Florida standout brings energy, length, and switchable defense, guarding multiple positions and thriving within the Celtics’ system. He’s a relentless rebounder who plays with discipline, finishes through contact, and provides the connective glue every contender needs.
Offensively, Haugh stays within the flow, cutting, spacing, and making sharp reads as a passer. His jumper continues to develop, and his versatility as a face-up scorer or transition finisher complements stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. With his motor, mobility, and rapidly improving skill set, Haugh projects as a plug-and-play role player who raises both Boston’s ceiling and floor.
17) San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)
Yaxel Lendeborg, F, Michigan
The San Antonio Spurs are on an upward trajectory, and adding Yaxel Lendeborg raises the ceiling. He’s a versatile, high-IQ forward who brings strength, rebounding, and a polished feel for the game. He thrives as a connector who moves the ball, makes quick reads, and scores efficiently around the rim. His production after transferring from UAB to Michigan has reinforced his ability to impact games without forcing the action.
On defense, Lendeborg excels through anticipation and positioning, using length and timing to guard multiple spots and disrupt plays. He’s a switchable, fundamentally sound defender who would complement Victor Wembanyama. As his jumper solidifies, Lendeborg projects as one of the most NBA-ready forwards in the class.
18) Cleveland Cavaliers
Dash Daniels, SG, Melbourne United
The Cleveland Cavaliers are off to an up-and-down start and could stand to add talent to their backcourt rotation. Dash Daniels offers size, length, and defensive feel.
At 6’7”, the Australian guard already defends multiple positions with poise and discipline, using quick hands and anticipation to generate turnovers. His defensive motor and instincts mirror those of his brother Dyson, but Dash shows more natural rhythm as a scorer and ball handler.
Daniels projects as a composed playmaker on offense who can operate on or off the ball. His improving jumper, passing vision, and control in pick-and-roll settings suggest long-term two-way value. As he matures and fills out his frame, Daniels looks like a high-upside, defensive-minded guard who could bring balance and versatility to a Cavaliers backcourt built around scorers and playmakers like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
19) Memphis Grizzlies
Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke
The Grizzlies could use more offensive punch on the wing, and Isaiah Evans is an elite shot-maker and fluid perimeter scorer. The Duke standout spaces the floor with deep range, a quick release, and the confidence to score off both the catch and the dribble. His ability to draw defensive attention and attack closeouts would create cleaner driving lanes for Ja Morant, opening up the offense.
On defense, Evans flashes the length and anticipation to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes, with steady growth as a two-way contributor. He is still building strength, but his competitiveness and energy make him a natural culture fit. If his playmaking continues to evolve, Evans projects as a high-upside shot creator who could become a key perimeter piece for the Grizzlies’ long-term core.
20) Minnesota Timberwolves
Darius Acuff Jr., PG, Arkansas
Darius Acuff Jr.’s burst, strength, and playmaking flair make him an ideal backcourt partner for Anthony Edwards. At 6’3”, the Arkansas guard blends explosive downhill scoring with improved patience as an organizer, thriving in pick-and-rolls and finding open teammates when defenses collapse. His ability to play on or off the ball would be a good fit as the Wolves transition beyond Mike Conley.
Acuff’s competitive edge and physicality shine on both ends. He’s fearless driving into contact, tough at the point of attack, and engaged defensively. His developing 3-point consistency and growing command point to a high-upside lead guard who could stabilize Minnesota’s offense.
21) Charlotte Hornets (via PHX)
Dame Sarr, SG, Duke
At 6’8” with long arms and smooth athleticism, Dame Sarr offers the two-way potential the Hornets need on the wing. His ability to attack downhill, finish above the rim, and play with pace in transition would complement LaMelo Ball and Kon Knueppel’s playmaking while adding size and versatility to Charlotte’s rotation. Even as he adjusts to the college game, Sarr’s professional experience in Europe shows in his poise and decision-making.
Defensively, Sarr’s length and anticipation allow him to guard multiple positions and generate turnovers, flashing elite perimeter potential. He competes with energy, rotates well, and has the foundation of a future 3-and-D standout. As his strength and jumper improve, Sarr projects as a high-upside wing who could grow into a core piece.
22) Miami Heat
Neoklis Avdalas, SF, Virginia Tech
Neoklis Avdalas possesses size, poise, and playmaking versatility, making him an intriguing piece the Miami Heat would love to build around. The Greek point forward sees the floor at an elite level, orchestrating offense with smooth ball-handling and precise passing in pick-and-roll situations. His developing jumper and mid-range confidence make him a credible scoring threat, and he’s displayed an ability to read defenses.
Avdalas uses his length and anticipation to disrupt passing lanes and rotate effectively. While not overly explosive, his awareness and discipline should translate. As he gains strength and consistency, Avdalas’ vision, feel, and two-way impact could make him a promising secondary creator for the Heat’s core.
23) Toronto Raptors
Hannes Steinbach, PF/C, Washington
At 6’11”, Hannes Steinbach would bring needed physicality, polish, and poise to the Toronto Raptors’ frontcourt rotation. The Washington big man excels as a finisher and facilitator in pick-and-roll and high-post actions, using a soft touch, sharp instincts, and advanced footwork to control the game inside.
His consistency on the glass and ability to score through contact would give Toronto a formidable frontcourt, complemented by Scottie Barnes and Jakob Poeltl.
Steinbach anchors the paint with strength and discipline, protecting the rim through sound positioning rather than athleticism. He communicates, rebounds, and competes with effort. If his perimeter shot develops, Steinbach projects as a steady, two-way contributor at the next level.
24) Atlanta Hawks (via SAS)
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn
Tahaad Pettiford’s explosiveness, confidence, and scoring ability make him a natural fit for a Hawks team that may need a new point guard next season. At 6’1”, the Auburn guard plays bigger than his size with elite burst, tight handles, and fearless shot-making from all three levels. His speed in transition and poise in clutch moments could inject life into the Hawks’ second unit or position him as a long-term lead guard if they move on from Trae Young.
Defensively, Pettiford competes with tenacity, utilizing quick feet and active hands to pressure opposing ball handlers. He brings a fiery edge, never shying from physical matchups despite his stature. As his playmaking continues to evolve, Pettiford has the tools to grow into one of the league’s most dynamic undersized guards.
25) Denver Nuggets
Christian Anderson, PG, Texas Tech
The Denver Nuggets don’t have a consistent presence behind Jamal Murray. Christian Anderson’s poise, shooting, and playmaking make him an enticing fit. The Texas Tech guard has proven he can run an offense with precision, excelling in pick‑and‑rolls and creating shots for both himself and teammates. His perimeter shooting translates on or off the ball, giving the Nuggets another backcourt weapon to space the floor around Nikola Jokić.
Though undersized, Anderson’s craft and decision-making offset his physical limitations. He reads defenses quickly, makes the extra pass, and rarely forces plays. As he improves his finishing and efficiency, Anderson could become a valuable rotational guard who contributes early in a winning environment.
26) New York Knicks
Flory Bidunga, C, Kansas
Flory Bidunga would bring a physical presence to the New York Knicks’ frontcourt, thanks to his size, athleticism, and relentless energy. He has long arms and elite burst, anchoring the paint as a rim protector and rebounder while running the floor in transition. His ability to finish lobs, clean the glass, and provide consistent activity would immediately bolster New York’s frontcourt depth, especially given Mitchell Robinson’s unavailability over the years.
Offensively, Bidunga plays with power and purpose, finishing through contact, establishing deep position, and showing touch with his left hand. His growing comfort level handling the ball and willingness to extend his range hint at untapped offensive potential.
27) Oklahoma City Thunder (via HOU)
Cameron Carr, SG, Baylor
The Thunder can load up on talent in the 2026 NBA Draft. Adding Cameron Carr would be a luxury, but they can’t pass up the opportunity. The Baylor wing brings shooting, length, and versatility.
He has emerged as one of college basketball’s toughest shot-makers, thriving as an off-ball spacer with deep range and a quick release. His athleticism and confidence attacking downhill give him another dimension, while his unselfish passing would be an asset in Oklahoma City.
On defense, Carr’s long arms and lateral quickness let him guard both backcourt spots and contribute as a weak-side shot blocker. He plays with toughness despite a developing frame, competing with effort and poise on every possession. As he adds strength and polish as a creator, Carr projects as an ideal rotational guard who can space the floor, defend multiple spots, and blend into any lineup.
28) Los Angeles Lakers
Patrick Ngongba II, C, Duke
The Los Angeles Lakers added Deandre Ayton, but they need to be formidable on defense. Patrick Ngongba II wins with awareness and positioning rather than athleticism. He contests shots, boxes out with discipline, and consistently controls the glass.
The 7-footer has developed into a steady offensive presence at Duke, showcasing a soft touch around the rim, improved vision as a passer, and the strength to hold his position in the post. His ability to anchor half-court possessions gives Los Angeles a dependable, low-maintenance big man who can complement Ayton.
As he continues to stretch his range, Ngongba projects as a reliable rotational center.
29) Detroit Pistons
Meleek Thomas, G, Arkansas
The Detroit Pistons are a team on the rise and will continue to add to their young core. Meleek Thomas’ offensive creativity and scoring polish give this squad a consistent shot-maker.
The Arkansas guard combines a smooth handle with deep shooting touch and the ability to create space off the dribble. He excels at attacking in transition and as a secondary playmaker, giving Detroit a dynamic perimeter threat who can relieve pressure on Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey.
While Thomas isn’t a finished product defensively, his motor and willingness to compete suggest real growth potential in the Pistons’ hard-nosed system. He plays with confidence and poise beyond his years, showing three-level scoring and improving shot selection. With continued strength development and defensive focus, Thomas projects as a versatile guard who can deliver instant offense and long-term upside.
30) Washington Wizards (via OKC)
Henri Veesaar, C, North Carolina
Henri Veesaar could bring size, touch, and modern versatility to a Wizards frontcourt that already features Alex Sarr. The 7-footer plays with a high motor and advanced fundamentals, using quick feet, soft hands, and excellent timing to finish lobs, contest shots, and rebound in traffic. His offensive growth makes him an intriguing fit.
On defense, Veesaar’s footwork and awareness allow him to protect the rim and stay viable in switch-heavy schemes. Though he needs to add strength, his mobility and effort make him a dependable team defender who rarely takes a play off. With continued physical development and refined shot mechanics, Veesaar projects as a skilled two-way big man who could solidify Washington’s long-term frontcourt rotation.
2026 NBA Mock Draft | Round 2
31) Boston Celtics
Brayden Burries, SG, Arizona
32) Washington Wizards
Paul McNeil Jr., SG, NC State
33) Memphis Grizzlies
JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech
34) Brooklyn Nets
Alex Karaban, F, UConn
35) Brooklyn Nets
Ryan Conwell, G, Louisville
36) Sacramento Kings
Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois
37) Sacramento Kings
Dailyn Swain, SF, Texas
38) Phoenix Suns
Cayden Boozer, PG, Duke
39) San Antonio Spurs
Sergio de Larrea, PG, Spain
40) San Antonio Spurs
Magoon Gwath, C, San Diego State
41) Boston Celtics
Alex Condon, C, Florida
42) Los Angeles Clippers
Milan Momcilovic, F, Iowa State
43) Washington Wizards
Zuby Ejiofor, F, St. John’s
44) Oklahoma City Thunder
Nikolas Khamenia, F, Duke
45) New Orleans Pelicans
Malachi Moreno, C, Kentucky
46) Atlanta Hawks
JoJo Tugler, PF, Houston
47) Brooklyn Nets
David Mirkovic, F, Illinois
48) Cleveland Cavaliers
Karter Knox, F, Arkansas
49) Washington Wizards
Matt Able, G, NC State
50) Washington Wizards
Aday Mara, C, Michigan
51) Orlando Magic
Boogie Fland, G, Florida
52) New York Knicks
Donnie Freeman, PF, Syracuse
53) Minnesota Timberwolves
Moustapha Thiam, C, Cincinnati
54) Toronto Raptors
Milos Uzan, PG, Houston
55) Minnesota Timberwolves
Braden Smith, PG, Purdue
56) Indiana Pacers
Morez Johnson, C, Michigan
57) Houston Rockets
Isiah Harwell, SG, Houston
58) Toronto Raptors
Keaton Wagler, SG, Illinois
59) New York Knicks
Johann Grunloh, PF, Virginia
60) San Antonio Spurs
Otega Oweh, SG, Kentucky