The central question at the top of the 2026 NBA draft is whether the Washington Wizards choose AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson at No. 1. ESPN’s mock draft reports that rival teams still view Dybantsa as the slight favorite, but the gap between the two prospects is described as very narrow.
The draft is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN. Washington’s decision appears tied not only to prospect evaluation, but also to roster fit: Dybantsa is presented as a downhill scorer with physical tools, while Peterson is framed as a perimeter creator and shooter.
Beyond the first pick, the mock projects Peterson as a strong option for Utah if he is available, with Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson also discussed among the early selections. The source also notes reported pre-draft visits and workouts, including Peterson’s Washington-only visit and Dybantsa’s meetings with Washington and Utah.
A major uncertainty remains the Milwaukee Bucks’ handling of Giannis Antetokounmpo trade possibilities. Because the report is a mock draft built partly on league conversations and projections, editors should treat the board as a snapshot of current expectations rather than a confirmed draft outcome.
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