The 2026 NBA Draft is entering its final stretch with top prospects finalizing meetings and workouts. A.J. Dybantsa has met with the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz, the teams holding the first and second picks. Darryn Peterson, widely regarded as the second-best player in the class, has only visited with the Wizards.
Dybantsa, a 6'10", 220-pound forward from Australia, is the consensus No. 1 pick in most mock drafts. His combination of size, agility, and perimeter skills has drawn comparisons to Victor Wembanyama in terms of upside. He averaged 18.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in the 2025 NBL season while shooting 36% from three-point range. His defensive versatility and basketball IQ make him a perfect fit for either the Wizards or Jazz.
The Wizards and Jazz are both expected to be active in the draft. Washington has the first pick and is in serious need of a young, dynamic big man to pair with their backcourt. Utah, coming off a playoff exit, is looking to build for the future and has the second pick. The Jazz have the flexibility to either take Dybantsa or pivot to a guard or wing with their pick.
Peterson, a 6'8", 215-pound swingman from the NBL, is often projected as the No. 2 or No. 3 pick. He averaged 20.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game in 2025, shooting 41% from deep. His ability to play off the ball and create for others gives him a unique skill set. Some mock drafts have him going first overall to Washington, which could indicate a strong connection between the player and the team.
Peterson’s decision to only meet with the Wizards has raised questions about his draft intentions. It also gives Washington a potential edge in the race for the top prospect. The Wizards are said to be heavily considering Peterson for the first pick, but Dybantsa remains their top target.
With the first round set for June 23 and the second round on June 24, the final decisions are days away. Teams will finalize their strategies in the coming days as the draft approaches.
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