With the 2026 NBA Draft only several days away, now is the perfect time to release the final version of the 2026 NBA mock draft. Accounting for the prospects’ individual stats, team needs, combine results, and other factors, let’s dive into LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft of the first round.
2026 NBA Mock Draft 7.0: Final Edition
1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa, BYU, SF
This is one of the years where the team selecting with the first overall pick is an extremely difficult choice. There are three highly talented prospects who can alter the fortune of the Washington Wizards franchise, and they are on roughly equal footing to one another. There isn’t a wrong choice between the three. Nevertheless, BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa may be the easiest prospect to slot into their current young core and veteran stars.
The six-foot-nine wing stands as one of the best scoring prospects in the entire draft, while also showing upside as a passer and defender. With his skill set, Dybantsa fits well into the Wizards’ young core as their centerpiece of the future. Washington’s young players all have complementary skills that would work well around Dybantsa and his talents. Additionally, one aspect of selecting Dybantsa that benefits Washington is that he directly fits into the starting lineup as the starting small forward next to Trae Young, Anthony Davis, Alex Sarr, and Kyshawn George. Dybantsa has all the talent and skill to be the star that they have long desired during their rebuild.
2. Utah Jazz: Darryn Peterson, Kansas, SG/PG
Kansas Jayhawk guard Darryn Peterson is certainly in the conversation for being the first overall pick. Peterson already signaled to the Wizards that he wants to be first by only working out with Washington, cancelling his plans with the Utah Jazz. Nevertheless, it is likely that Peterson will be the second overall pick going to Utah. It’s not like Utah is afraid of picking a prospect who deliberately did not work out with them and does not want to be there, as it was in the case of Ace Bailey last draft.
Regardless of how Peterson feels about going to the Jazz, he would be a tremendous fit for the roster and their rebuild. The Jazz is another team that needs a star to build around long-term, which is something Peterson can be while also immediately fitting with the current roster and team playstyle. At around six-foot-five with a six-foot-ten wingspan, Peterson has both incredible scoring and high-level defense in his skill set. He would make an excellent backcourt partner next to Keyonte George, providing the necessary shot-making and defense.
Additionally, as one of the best guard prospects of the last decade, Peterson has the versatility to be utilized on or off the ball. On a team with a massive frontcourt consisting of Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and potentially Walker Kessler, his versatility as an off-ball shooter or an on-ball shot creator would be invaluable next to them.
3. Memphis Grizzlies: Cameron Boozer, Duke, PF
While Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer absolutely has the talent to be picked first or second, the Memphis Grizzlies would be an excellent place for him to land. The Grizzlies themselves would get one of the most talented prospects in the entire draft to be the replacement for Ja Morant as he makes his potential exit from the franchise.
The six-foot-nine forward is easily one of the most skilled and intelligent players in the class, possessing a versatile skill set that allows him to excel in various parts of the game. Boozer would make the best partner next to Zach Edey in the starting frontcourt, fitting next to one another perfectly. The sheer amount of physicality, skill, and talent between the two would give Memphis one of the best and most imposing frontcourts in the NBA.
4. Chicago Bulls: Caleb Wilson, UNC, PF
By making a significant jump in the draft order, the Chicago Bulls get to add a foundational piece to their rebuild in this talented draft class. While the big three of Dybantsa, Peterson, and Boozer are the consensus top three, UNC forward Caleb Wilson is typically regarded as the next best prospect after them. The six-foot-nine Wilson would be a tremendous fit for Chicago’s roster as they trend their team towards positional size and athleticism.
Wilson’s draft stock as a prospect lies in the use of his physical gifts to be a dominant two-way star on the court. He can easily transition from making defensive plays to scoring thunderous highlights. He can be the centerpiece of a highly athletic team that possesses size and length in spades. Wilson, alongside other forwards like Matas Buzelis, Noa Essengue, and Leonard Miller, will help the Bulls be a team that dominates others with overwhelming length and athleticism.
5. Los Angeles Clippers (via Indiana Pacers): Kingston Flemings, Houston, PG/SG
The Los Angeles Clippers round out the top five of the draft, gaining this pick from the Ivica Zubac trade. With this pick, the Clippers can add another long-term piece to their growing youth movement. In a class filled with talented guards, they will have plenty of choices to find a great backcourt partner for Darius Garland. Among the prospects, Houston Cougars guard Kingston Flemings would make an excellent option as an impactful two-way guard next to Garland.
While his measurements were underwhelming at around six-foot-two and a half with a six-foot-three and a half wingspan, Flemings is still an incredibly talented prospect. He has demonstrated immense skill on both ends of the floor despite his lacking physical tools. He uses his quickness and burst to be a real three-level scorer and playmaker, and he has the versatility to play on or off the ball. His defense is what separates him from the other top point guards in the class, demonstrating motor and aggressiveness.
To be sure, a pairing of Garland and Flemings would produce a smaller backcourt. However, Flemings has shown the necessary fight and willingness to be a defender next to Garland. He can also provide significant scoring and passing to lighten the load for Garland and Kawhi Leonard. His combination of speed, skill, and athleticism makes him an impactful two-way guard for Los Angeles while having star upside.
6. Brooklyn Nets: Keaton Wagler, Illinois, SG/PG
The Brooklyn Nets ended up with the sixth overall pick due to the bad luck of the draw during the lottery. Regardless of the outcome, however, the Nets can still find an immensely talented player for their rebuild. One player that would be an excellent fit for their team build is Illinois product, Keaton Wagler. Standing at six-foot-five, Wagler is a plus-sized ball-handler who can drive and shoot at a high level. For a team that desperately needs more talent, drafting Wagler would go a long way in fixing that issue.
With his height and skill set, Wagler would perfectly fit with the current vision for the team. Specifically, he fits as a player with positional size, who can handle the ball, and who can be a great passer. Wagler fits that criteria while providing something different from the other guards that Brooklyn has on their roster. In particular, Wagler would easily be the best shooter and driver among the guards on the team. augmenting his offense, Wagler leverages his offensive talent well to be a great passer. His level of talent as an offensive player gives him the upside to be a starting guard for Brooklyn in the future.
7. Sacramento Kings: Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas, PG
If there is one thing that the Sacramento Kings badly need on the roster, it is youthful talent. As they proceed in their rebuild, they must find talented players for their future. In fact, they need young talent at almost every position. It doesn’t help that the Kings fell to seventh, but they still need talent for the future. Fortunately for them, they can find one of the most offensively talented prospects in Darius Acuff Jr., who has the upside to be a real star.
At six-foot-two, Acuff is on the shorter side of guards, but he has proven to be a major threat on the offensive end. He is an amazing shot-maker who can score anywhere on the court. Not only that, but he is also a high-level playmaker who can leverage his scoring to create more opportunities for his teammates. For a team that lacks a young prospect with his level of creation ability, Acuff would be a home run swing for Sacramento.
To be fair, Acuff does have his warts, particularly as a defender, but he can be a foundational piece to a young core that consists of Keegan Murray, Maxime Raynaud, and Nique Clifford. Living in the shadow of what De’Aaron Fox provided to the Kings for years isn’t an easy burden to bear, but Acuff has the talent to be the point guard the Kings need as they move into the future.
8. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans): Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville, PG
With Young out of the picture, the Atlanta Hawks must find a successor at the point guard position as they continue to build around Jalen Johnson. If there is any guard still left on the board who has the potential to be that successor, it is Mikel Brown Jr., a point guard out of Louisville. While he had an injury-riddled season with the Cardinals, Brown has shown glimpses of his offensive potential as the offensive engine of his team.
At around six-foot-four, Brown brings solid size and amazing offensive upside at the point guard spot. He has shown himself to be a capable three-level scorer who reads the floor at a high level. Next to guys like Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Brown can provide the much-needed ball-handling and offensive organization that the Hawks need on the court. In an off-ball capacity, Brown can also bring his impressive shooting to bear, spacing the floor for his team. He isn’t the best defender, and Brown isn’t the most efficient, but he has a real chance to be the lead guard Atlanta needs as it looks to become more competitive.
9. Dallas Mavericks: Labaron Philon, Alabama, PG/SG
Using the ninth overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks have a golden opportunity to add more long-term talent around their 2025 first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, who has proven to be the star forward that his pre-draft hype had promised. He had major impact on both ends of the floor, but he does need more help around him. Specifically, he can use another shot-creator and ball-handler who can be with him for the long haul, as Kyrie Irving is not on Flagg’s timeline. That is where Alabama guard Labaron Philon comes into the picture, as he has the skill and talent to be the lead guard for Dallas as they build around Flagg.
The six-foot-three Philon has demonstrated himself to be a true three-level scorer who can effectively break down defenses at a high level. The sophomore is also a skilled passer and ball-handler who can orchestrate the offense next to Flagg. Philon has also shown upside as a defender in his freshman year when he played in a lower usage role on offense. Next to creators like Irving and Flagg, it is possible that Philon can put more of his energy into being a solid defender at the guard spot. Nevertheless, Philon’s overall package as a lead guard would make him an ideal partner for Flagg at the point guard position.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Brayden Burries, Arizona, SG/PG
For A Milwaukee Bucks franchise holding its breath in anticipation of how the Giannis Antetokounmpo situation shakes out, getting a highly talented prospect in the 2026 NBA Draft is paramount. Regardless of whether or not Antetokounmpo stays or leaves, the Bucks must find someone who can be part of their long-term future. With that in mind, Arizona guard Brayden Burries would be an excellent pickup at 10th overall.
Standing at around six-foot-four, Burries is a strong guard who utilizes his sturdy frame to be a physical presence on both ends of the floor. Unquestionably, Burries is a talented scorer who can knock down shots from anywhere on the court. Whether it be at the rim, in the mid-range, or beyond the arc, Burries can put the ball in the hoop. What’s better is that he is also an impactful player on the defensive end, using his size and strength to defend both guard spots.
He would be a major talent for Milwaukee’s rebuild, providing them with a two-way talent who can be part of the future. Even if Antetokounmpo decides to stay, Burries’ skill set would allow him to fit perfectly next to the Greek Freak.
11. Golden State Warriors: Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan, PF
As the Golden State Warriors look to have one last hurrah with Stephen Curry and Steve Kerr, they will need to find talent that will be a day-one contributor in the draft. One player that fits the bill for Golden State is Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg, who has demonstrated excellence on both ends of the floor. Despite being one of the older prospects in the draft, Lendeborg brings a level of athleticism and two-way capability that the Warriors desperately need in the frontcourt.
At six-foot-nine with a sturdy frame, he can lock down multiple positions by being a versatile defender while also using his physicality to be a major threat to score. In fact, Lendeborg brings a well-rounded offensive game that would fit well next to Curry and the Warriors, both in terms of his scoring and playmaking. For a Warriors team that badly needs additional help in the frontcourt and on the wings, it will be difficult to find someone better than Lendeborg. With one last title on their minds, picking the upperclassman is the right choice for NBA-ready production.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Los Angeles Clippers): Hannes Steinbach, Washington, PF/C
The Oklahoma City Thunder has two first-round picks in this draft. They can use those picks in various ways to bolster their squad after failing to defend their title, losing to the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. In a pure NBA draft angle, using at least one of their picks to gain additional size would be a major help to the team. Furthermore, they may also have to replace some of their current rotation players, specifically Isaiah Hartenstein, due to tax apron implications. With that being said, one player that would be a great fit for Oklahoma City’s roster is Washington big man Hannes Steinbach.
Standing at around six-foot-ten with a seven-foot-two wingspan, Steinbach has demonstrated himself to be a skilled interior scorer and one of the best rebounders in the entire class. For his scoring abilities, Steinbach has a versatile interior game using his touch, feel, and footwork to be a strong post-up scorer who can also be a strong roll-man and play-finisher. He has also shown potential as a shooter, giving him the upside to stretch the floor.
He would operate well as a bigger body next to Chet Holmgren, helping him battle on the boards and being a tough interior presence. Being on the Thunder’s roster will benefit Steinbach immensely on the defensive end, helping him to hide his weaknesses. He would be an amazing fit for their roster needs as they continue to look to contend.
13. Miami Heat: Morez Johnson Jr., Michigan, PF/C
If there is one specific area that the Miami Heat can stand to improve, it is in the frontcourt next to Bam Adebayo. They just need additional size, defense, and rebounding around him. The Heat may find that in an Antetokounmpo trade, in which the 13th pick will go to Milwaukee. However, if they do use this pick to draft a prospect, one who would fit extremely well next to Adebayo and Heat Culture is Morez Johnson Jr., a forward out of Michigan.
At six-foot-nine with a seven-foot-three and a half wingspan, Johnson can bring the energy, rebounding, and defense that Miami needs in the frontcourt. He can provide the Heat with a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions, including guards and smaller big men. With Adebayo, Miami can field an extremely imposing defensive duo that can keep the paint locked down. He can even offer Miami potential upside on the offensive end, demonstrating shooting upside and finishing touch. If the Heat happen to keep and use this pick, getting Johnson would be an exemplary use of it.
14. Charlotte Hornets: Aday Mara, Michigan, C
The Charlotte Hornets possess two first-round picks, with the first one being the last pick in the lottery. They can go in several different directions with this pick, but one prudent choice would be to get a center with actual size on the roster. Luckily for them, one center still on the board is the tallest one of the centers projected in the first round. That center is Michigan big man Aday Mara, who stands at seven-foot-three with a seven-foot-six wingspan.
While Moussa Diabate has the speed and athleticism advantage, Mara easily has size and strength over him. He can provide the Hornets with someone who can defend the bigger centers around the league. Mara will also be a major help in terms of protecting the paint, using his massive wingspan to alter or block shots. Even on the offensive end, Mara will help, as he has great passing vision and instincts for his position and great play-finishing ability. He would be a great fit next to LaMelo Ball as the center option, as Charlotte looks to be a more credible postseason contender.
15. Chicago Bulls (via Portland Trail Blazers): Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky, C/PF
With their second first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Bulls could look to use it on getting their center of the future. One high-risk, high-reward option is Kentucky big man Jayden Quaintance, who is easily one of the best defensive prospects in the class. At six-foot-nine with a seven-foot-five wingspan, Quaintance is a highly athletic big man who can generate steals and blocks at an extremely high level.
He has the perfect blend of size, strength, and athleticism to be a versatile defender for the Bulls. Together with Wilson and the other wings, Quaintance could help the Bulls be a great defensive team that can run opposing teams off the floor. He has also shown impressive flashes offensively as a driver and face-up scorer. Unfortunately, Injuries have been a hindrance to his career, which increases the risk with Quaintance. Nevertheless, if he can stay healthy and develop with the Bulls, they will have someone with All-Defense upside.
16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Phoenix Suns): Ebuka Okorie, Stanford, PG
Memphis got their future star in Boozer, but they can also use someone who can be the long-term point guard next to him. One potential option for the Grizzlies at that spot is Stanford guard Ebuka Okorie. He has proven himself to be one of the best rim-pressuring guards in the entire class, generating paint-touches at will.
While Morant is a special talent, Okorie has the skills to provide some of the slashing ability that Morant once brought to the organization if he leaves. Not only that, but Okorie has shown significant upside as a scorer from mid-range and beyond the arc. To be sure, Okorie is a small guard at just six-foot-one, which would mean he will be targeted on defense. Nevertheless, the sheer talent he brings on the offensive end would be a major get for Memphis.
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia 76ers): Nate Ament, Tennessee, SF
While it is certainly possible that another team will have this pick on draft night, Oklahoma City could still add talent at this spot. Specifically, they could swing for the fences and add someone with high upside who can develop in the background. That is where Tennessee forward Nate Ament enters the picture. Ament did have an underwhelming season, struggling against NCAA-level physicality and having poor efficiency. However, at his size at six-foot-nine with his upside as a ball-handling wing, he could be a significant addition for the Thunder.
Ament has the potential to be a dribble, pass, and shoot wing, which fits directly in OKC’s drafting philosophy. He has also demonstrated upside as a three-level scorer who can also be impactful defensively. While Ament has a long way to go, his potential as a skilled wing could pay off dividends for the Thunder.
18. Charlotte Hornets (via Orlando Magic): Dailyn Swain, Texas, SF
Now with their second first-round pick, the Hornets can use it to add more depth on the wings. Specifically, they can use more defense and ball-handling at that position. Texas forward Dailyn Swain fits the bill as he is an excellent ball-handler who can slash and defend at a high level. Swain doesn’t necessarily fit into their three-point-heavy offense as he is a poor shooter, but he can provide the other skills that the Hornets desperately need.
In particular, Charlotte can use more ball-handling around Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller to alleviate some of that burden off of them. They also need someone who can generate paint touches in case of a poor shooting night. Swain can provide that at a high level, as he demonstrated great talent as a driver. Additionally, Swain has shown promise as a wing defender who can guard multiple positions. Besides his poor shooting, Swain is everything that the Hornets could want out of a wing. His two-way impact would be invaluable for the Hornets as they look to push for postseason glory.
19. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz, Iowa, PG
If anything was apparent with the Toronto Raptors this season, it’s that they need better point guard play and additional shot-making. While Brandon Ingram did help make Toronto a more threatening team, he isn’t enough of a solution for them long-term. Furthermore, Immanuel Quickley, while solid, is also not enough to better the Raptors’ offense. That is where Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz comes into play, as he is one of the best floor generals and shot-makers in the class.
The six-foot-two guard has proven throughout his college career to be an excellent point guard who can orchestrate offense at a high level. Stirtz has also shown strong shooting ability that allows him to play on or off the ball. He would be an ideal fit at point guard next to guys like Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles, both of whom need space to operate. Stirtz can also set them up for easier looks using his abilities to break down defenses and find open teammates.
While he is small for a guard and he isn’t the most athletic, the Raptors as a team have the personnel to hide his deficiencies. His skills and talent would go a long way in improving Toronto’s offense, making them more dangerous as a team.
20. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta Hawks): Allen Graves, Santa Clara, PF/SF
The San Antonio Spurs had a spectacular run through the 2026 NBA Playoffs, with it being their first playoff appearance since 2019. They acquitted themselves well, having defeated every opponent in front of them except the newly minted champions, the New York Knicks. The Spurs demonstrated grit, athleticism, and defense, but what was apparent was the need for additional size in the frontcourt next to Victor Wembanyama. Specifically, they do need another player who can defend bigger forwards and wings on the roster. While Carter Bryant is someone who can do that for the Spurs in the long term, they do need another player. With consideration of that, Santa Clara standout Allen Graves could be the move.
Standing at around six-foot-eight, Graves was one of the major risers in this 2026 NBA Draft cycle, having shown himself to be a highly impactful two-way freshman. He is easily one of the best defensive playmakers in the class, easily generating steals and blocks. He can also defend up and down the lineup, having the necessary size, length, and basketball IQ to be a versatile defender. Graves has also shown great offensive potential as a shooter, connective passer, and offensive rebounder. He would be the ideal power forward next to Wembanyama, maximizing and creating possessions at a high level while also providing 3-and-D impact.
21. Detroit Pistons (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Henri Veesaar, UNC, C/PF
Unquestionably, the thing that the Pistons desperately need the most on the roster is more shooting around Cade Cunningham. Regardless of whether that player is a guard, wing, or center, the Pistons just need more shooters. Detroit can try to alleviate that issue by using this pick to find a floor-spacer. One interesting option for Detroit is to get a big man who can be a floor spacer and passer in the middle. One prospect who matches that description is UNC big man Henri Veesaar.
The six-foot-eleven big man is one of the better offensive centers in the draft. He is a strong play-finisher who has also demonstrated strong passing and shooting flashes. Veesaar would be a tremendous fit next to Cunningham on the offensive end, as he would be an extraordinary partner in the pick-and-roll. Not only can he effectively finish plays at the rim off of Cunningham’s passes, but he can also be a short-roll distributor and pick-and-pop option. While there are questions surrounding his frame and defense, the Pistons are best equipped to mitigate those issues. That would allow Veesaar to be a significant offensive threat for the Pistons, taking the team’s offense to another level.
22. Philadelphia 76ers (via Houston Rockets): Koa Peat, Arizona, PF
The Philadelphia 76ers did better than expected this season, upsetting the Boston Celtics in the first round. However, something that was made apparent in both the regular season and postseason is their need for additional help in the frontcourt. With Joel Embiid‘s availability being inconsistent and the overall lack of long-term frontcourt players, the Sixers can use a sturdy forward who can be around for the long haul. One name left on the board who can help in that regard is Arizona forward Koa Peat.
The six-foot-seven forward is a physical prospect who uses his strength to overpower opposing players and defend up the lineup. Peat has the upside to be a two-way forward who can impact both ends of the floor using his aforementioned strength and physical tools. He is a skilled scorer in the interior, and he is talented as a passer. Defensively, his size and strength help him be a tough defender who can contend with bigger forwards and wings.
Peat is significantly hampered as a prospect due to his lack of shooting, but on a team with Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Embiid, that issue is somewhat lessened. Nevertheless, Peat can bring a level of toughness and physicality to the Sixers that they need around Embiid.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cleveland Cavaliers): Cameron Carr, Baylor, SG/SF
The Hawks went with Brown earlier in the draft, but they can stand to add another guard who can space the floor and provide athleticism on the wings. That player can be Baylor guard Cameron Carr, an explosive wing who can both slash and shoot at an impressive level. At around six-foot-five with a seven-foot-one wingspan, he has the size and length to defend guards and smaller wings, while using that length to be a great shot blocker for his position. Offensively, he can play above the rim, throwing down incredible dunks with ease, and he is a credible three-point shooting threat.
Carr has the tools and skill set to be a great role player for Atlanta next to Johnson and Alexander-Walker. He can provide the additional shooting and scoring they need while also having solid positional size. He can be a great 3-and-D wing for the Hawks, especially if he can add more strength to his frame.
24. New York Knicks: Tarris Reed Jr., UConn, C
While the New York Knicks just won their first championship in 53 years, they still need to find talent in the draft if they keep their pick. In particular, they need to find talented prospects who can play right away if key players from this season leave in free agency. One big name that could leave is Mitchell Robinson, leaving the Knicks without a backup to Karl-Anthony Towns. Even if he doesn’t leave, the Knicks can use a third big behind those two. With that in mind, UConn big man Tarris Reed Jr. would be a great pick to fill that role.
At around six-foot-ten, Reed has the size and strength to be a burly presence in the paint. He can be a solid paint defender who can handle contact against bigger centers. Furthermore, he is a great play-finisher, post-scorer, and passer, adding value on the offensive end. Not only that, but Reed is a strong rebounder on both ends. He can provide the Knicks with fundamental big man play and immediate contribution.
25. Los Angeles Lakers: Zuby Ejiofor, St. John’s, PF/C
If there was any takeaway from the Los Angeles Lakers’ postseason run without Luka Doncic, it’s that they need another big body in the rotation. With Deandre Ayton‘s motor consistently waxing and waning, and Jaxson Hayes not having the strength they need, the Lakers must find a prospect who can be physical and play with high energy. A prospect who can provide both things, along with other skills, is St. John’s forward Zuby Ejiofor.
Despite being undersized at around six-foot-eight, he does have a large wingspan of seven-foot-two, and Ejiofor has demonstrated great talent as a defender and passer. He can legitimately be a mobile defender who can guard multiple positions and protect the paint at a high level. He can be used in all sorts of defensive schemes, and he will do so with high energy and effort. Offensively, Eijofor has shown that he has some capability as a post-scorer, but his best skills are his offensive rebounding and superb passing for his position. While his shooting is still progressing and his height isn’t ideal, Ejiofor brings basically everything the Lakers would want from a big man next to Doncic and Austin Reaves.
26. Denver Nuggets: Christian Anderson, Texas Tech, PG
One area that the Denver Nuggets need to improve is in the backcourt, specifically behind Jamal Murray. Outside of Murray and Nikola Jokic, it would be difficult to find another player on the roster who can reliably generate offense. Most of the roster needs either of the two Nuggets stars on the court for them to get clean looks offensively. Getting an offensively minded guard would go a long way in helping to generate more offense. With how the board has shaken out, one guard who can provide that is Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson.
Unquestionably, the six-foot-one Anderson is one of the best three-point shooters and playmakers in the draft. He is an excellent shot-maker who can create his own shot or be an off-ball shooter next to other stars. Anderson has excellent vision and passing ability, allowing him to consistently find open teammates and get them the ball. He has his deficiencies as a defender due to his size, and he has concerns over generating enough rim pressure. Nevertheless, Anderson can give the Nuggets the offensive boost they need, especially off the bench.
27. Boston Celtics: Chris Cenac Jr., Houston, PF/C
It will be interesting to see what the Boston Celtics do on draft night, as they may not be making this specific pick. They could trade it for immediate help, or they can look to move up. Nevertheless, for this mock draft, the Celtics will remain at this pick, and they will go for the upside swing by taking Chris Cenac Jr., a freshman out of Houston.
At six-foot-ten with a seven-foot-five wingspan, Cenac is a tremendous athlete who has demonstrated great flashes in various areas of his game. He has shown the most promise as a lengthy and athletic defender who can cover significant ground. His mobility gives him the potential to be a switchable defender. Cenac has also shown significant upside as a rebounder and shooter. He has a ton of development ahead of him, as he needs to refine his offensive game and gain more strength on his frame. However, the Celtics are no strangers to taking projects late in the first round, as they did with Hugo Gonzalez, the 28th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit Pistons): Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State, PF
The Minnesota Timberwolves can look to use this pick to improve a couple of specific areas of the roster, but their frontcourt could use another player. Specifically, they can use a prospect who can be an immediate contributor in the league. One amazing prospect who can provide day-one production for them is Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson, who is among the most high-IQ players in the draft.
At around six-foot-eight, Jefferson blends strength, skill, and basketball IQ to be an impactful player on both ends of the court. He is a standout playmaker for his size and position, making incredible reads with ease. Jefferson is also a strong rebounder and solid defender who uses his size and physicality to outmuscle opposing players. His offensive efficiency can be better, especially as a shooter, but he provides a high floor that would work well in a complementary role next to guys like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle. Jefferson would be even more important if Randle is moved in the offseason, as he can be a solid option to fill minutes at the power forward position.
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via San Antonio Spurs): Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers, PF/SF
Another team that can look to add more depth in the frontcourt is the Cleveland Cavaliers. Whether they use this pick in a trade or to draft a prospect, they can use another forward. In the draft, one upside angle that Cleveland can look at is by taking New Zealand Breakers forward Karim Lopez.
At six-foot-eight, Lopez has demonstrated himself to be a physical prospect who attacks the glass and the paint with skill and power. He has also shown competency in an off-ball role as a cutter and connective passer. Lopez will certainly need to improve his engagement on the defensive end, though he uses his length well to be disruptive. He will also need to improve his shooting. Nevertheless, if everything coalesces with his development, Lopez can be a major piece for Cleveland in the future.
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Oklahoma City Thunder): Isaiah Evans, Duke, SG/SF
Adding more floor spacing around Flagg and Irving is always a solid idea. They can do that by using the last pick in the first round to select Duke wing, Isaiah Evans. At six-foot-five and a half, Evans possesses a blend of great positional size and impressive three-point shooting that makes him a solid wing option. He has proven during his time in college to be a skilled shooter who can be used in various shooting contexts. Not only that, but Evans can attack closeouts and hit shots in the mid-range.
He must gain more strength to handle NBA-level athletes, but he has shown improvement as a defender by using his length more to bother opposing players. While Evans may not be a super dynamic player, he would operate well in an off-ball capacity next to Flagg and Irving, providing them with impactful off-ball scoring. If he can improve his strength, Evans can be a useful 3-and-D wing for Dallas as they look to get back into the postseason.
Featured Image: William Purnell-Imagn Images
