{"id":177244,"date":"2026-02-13T07:00:24","date_gmt":"2026-02-13T12:00:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=177244"},"modified":"2026-02-12T21:46:19","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T02:46:19","slug":"2026-nba-mock-draft-3-0-post-trade-deadline-edition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2026\/02\/13\/2026-nba-mock-draft-3-0-post-trade-deadline-edition\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Post-Trade Deadline Edition"},"content":{"rendered":"

Now that the NBA trade deadline has come and gone, it is a great time to release an updated version of LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft<\/a>. Draft picks and players have changed hands, and the ranking of prospects has shifted now that college basketball has entered conference play. Based on the draft order from Tankathon as of February 9th, let’s dive into the third iteration of LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft of the first round.<\/p>\n

2026 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Post-Trade Deadline Edition<\/h2>\n

1. Sacramento Kings: Darryn Peterson, Kansas, SG\/PG<\/h3>\n

Sacramento has had a horrid season so far, being last in the Western Conference. They are clearly ready to move on to a new era of Kings basketball. One silver lining to their losses this season is that they have the opportunity to draft high in a loaded class. In particular, this mock draft has them have the opportunity to draft first overall, getting a prospect who can be the centerpiece to their rebuild going forward. They can find that centerpiece in undoubtedly one of the most talented guard prospects in recent times, Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The six-foot-five guard<\/a> is unquestionably the best guard in the class. In particular, he is defined by his well-rounded scoring game and ability to be impactful defensively. For a Kings team without a real star prospect in their young core, this is a homerun outcome. Peterson undoubtedly has the potential to be a star in the league and be the face of the franchise going forward. Additionally, he brings a skill set that guys like Nique Clifford<\/a>, Keegan Murray<\/a>, Dylan Cardwell<\/a>, and Maxime Raynuad<\/a> do not have. Specifically, Peterson’s elite scoring and ability to be a lead ball-handler allow him to be the primary offensive option. Due to that, he can seamlessly fit within their current core of young players and lead them into a brighter future.<\/p>\n

2. Indiana Pacers: Cameron Boozer, Duke, PF<\/h3>\n

Another team that has been dealing with an awful season is the Indiana Pacers. After Tyrese Haliburton<\/a> tore his Achilles in the finals, it guaranteed that Indiana was in for a lost season. That is exactly what happened coming into the season, but they are able to land in the top three for this mock. The Pacers will take the best player available, which is Duke forward Cameron Boozer<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Standing at six-foot-nine<\/a>, the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer<\/a> is one of the most accomplished and well-rounded prospects in the class. Not only can he effectively score anywhere on the court, but he is a great playmaker and defender in his own right. He has all the skills and potential to be Haliburton’s co-star for the long haul. While the fit between him and Pascal Siakam<\/a> is something that needs to be worked out, Boozer is still an overwhelmingly talented prospect who will be around longer than Siakam. Regardless, Boozer can form a formidable frontcourt with Siakam and the newly acquired Ivica Zubac<\/a>. Adding Boozer and getting Haliburton back would makes give the Pacers the resurgence they need to be a threat in the East for years to come.<\/p>\n

3. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa, BYU, SF<\/h3>\n

The Washington Wizards had a busy trade deadline, adding two All-Stars<\/a> in Trae Young<\/a> and Anthony Davis<\/a>. Those moves alone can give Washington the boost they need to make noise in the Eastern Conference next season. However, the Wizards can also potentially add a top-five pick to their squad, giving them even more talent. For the purposes of this mock draft, Washington ends up with the third pick, which allows them to draft BYU forward AJ Dybantsa<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The six-foot-nine wing is the elite wing prospect of the top three, defined by his relentless rim scoring and mid-range prowess. Furthermore, Dybantsa<\/a> has all the tools to be a versatile wing defender and solid playmaker. He will join a young Washington core that has been on the rise this season. Dybantsa joining Davis and Alex Sarr<\/a> will create an athletic, versatile frontcourt that will be hell for opposing teams to score on. Plus, he will join a dynamic wing room next to Kyshawn George<\/a>, Justin Champagnie<\/a>, and Bilal Coulibaly<\/a>. He gives the Wizards additional shot creation and rim pressure that the other wings do not provide as effectively as Dybantsa. With an ascending young core and the additions of Young and Davis, Dybantsa can be the key piece to Washington’s transition towards contention.<\/p>\n

4. Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans): Kingston Flemings, Houston, PG<\/h3>\n

With the departure of Young from the Hawks, it is clear that they need a new guard to replace him. Considering that, getting Houston guard Kingston Flemings<\/a> would be one of the best things that they can hope for. Standing at six-foot-four, Flemings<\/a> has proven himself to be an excellent three-level scorer who also impacts the game as a defender and playmaker. With his versatility at the guard position, he can be the lead guard they need to pair with Jalen Johnson<\/a>. Not only that, but his aggressive defensive playmaking would make a backcourt of Flemings and Dyson Daniels<\/a> a menace to deal with for opposing guards. Overall, Flemings can fill the void left by Young, providing Atlanta with elite scoring that they sorely need on the perimeter.<\/p>\n

5. Brooklyn Nets: Caleb Wilson, UNC, PF<\/h3>\n

The Brooklyn Nets have a collection of young talent, with one major standout being Egor Demin<\/a>. However, they still need to add more talent to their young core, particularly to fortify their defense. Luckily for Brooklyn, they land in the top five for this mock. That means they get to draft one of the most promising and athletic forwards in the class, UNC forward Caleb Wilson<\/a>. All throughout this college season, Wilson<\/a> has shown excellence as a defensive menace and fantastic finisher around the rim. Not only that, but his impressive rebounding and upside as a scorer grant him incredible potential that allows him to be a fundamental building block for the Nets going forward. He is certainly someone who can eventually impact winning for Brooklyn in the future, especially if he improves his shooting.<\/p>\n

6. Utah Jazz: Keaton Wagler, Illinois, SG\/PG<\/h3>\n

The Utah Jazz were another team that made a big move at the trade deadline, acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr.<\/a> to fortify their frontcourt. Alongside the development of their young crop of players, the Jazz will be a team to be taken seriously next year. Not only that, but for the purposes of this 2026 NBA mock draft, they also get a top-10 pick to add to their rising team. With that pick, they will select Illinois guard Keaton Wagler<\/a>, who has had a meteoric rise due to his amazing play this college season.<\/p>\n

What he can bring to the Jazz is elite shooting, great passing, and excellent positional size at either guard spot, while having upside as a defender. Unlike the other guards on the Jazz, Wagler<\/a> has demonstrated the skills and potential to be incredibly impactful on either end of the floor. With the proper development, Wagler can be the piece that pushes Utah basketball to a new level.<\/p>\n

7. Dallas Mavericks: Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville, PG<\/h3>\n

One thing that is clear about the Dallas Mavericks is that they badly need a long-term solution at the point guard position. While Ryan Nembhard<\/a> and Brandon Williams<\/a> have been solid, neither is the lead guard Dallas needs. As for Kyrie Irving<\/a>, he is simply too old to be Cooper Flagg<\/a>‘s running mate outside of the next couple seasons. With that being said, they can rectify that with the deep point guard class in this year’s draft. Someone in the draft who has the potential to be an offensive engine for his team is Mikel Brown Jr.<\/a>, a guard out of Louisville.<\/p>\n

Brown<\/a> can bring amazing three-point shooting and playmaking at the point guard position, giving Flagg a secondary creator to play with. While he isn’t much of a defender and he isn’t the most efficient, Brown still provides skills in critical areas that the Mavericks need. With time and development, Brown can be an excellent point guard who can both run the show and play a complementary role next to Flagg.<\/p>\n

8. Memphis Grizzlies:\u00a0Labaron Philon, Alabama, PG\/SG<\/h3>\n

With Jackson Jr. out the door and Ja Morant<\/a> on the trade block, Memphis needs to find talented prospects for its rebuild. They already have excellent wings in Jaylen Wells<\/a> and Cedric Coward<\/a>. Additionally, Zach Edey<\/a> has been a great center for them. However, they clearly need long-term talent at the point guard position once Morant is gone. They can find that talent in Alabama guard Labaron Philon<\/a>, who has improved immensely since his freshman season.<\/p>\n

The six-foot-four Philon<\/a> is a crafty, high-IQ guard who has developed into a true three-level scorer. Not only that, but he is a talented playmaker and solid defender in his own right. Philon has the potential to be the point guard of the future for Memphis. He can give them great scoring and playmaking while also providing the defense that Memphis has lacked at the point guard spot. To be sure, Philon must continue to develop his frame. However, Philon can be an impactful two-way player for Memphis’ next iteration of the Grizzlies.<\/p>\n

9. Milwaukee Bucks: Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky, C\/PF<\/h3>\n

The Milwaukee Bucks are a team currently in flux. They are navigating uncertain waters around their face of the franchise, Giannis Antetokounmpo<\/a>, and his potential exit from Milwaukee<\/a>. The Bucks have to balance finding ways to upgrade the roster and adding youthful upside for the future of the team. One player in the draft that can provide them with both is Kentucky big man Jayden Quaintance<\/a>.<\/p>\n

While the six-foot-ten center is currently out due to injury, he has demonstrated immense potential. Specifically, Quaintance<\/a> has shown himself to possess the upside to be an absolutely incredible defensive player. He is a highly impactful defensive playmaker who uses his tools and athleticism to rack up steals and blocks. Plus, he has the size and quickness to handle both bigs and perimeter players. He has also shown upside offense, flashing potential as a passer and driver. Should Antetokounmpo stay on the roster, Quaintance can step into a backup big role, providing great defensive impact. However, should the Greek Freak leave in the summer, Quaintance can be the starting point of the Bucks’ rebuild. Nevertheless, the Bucks should be thrilled to get such a defensive prospect, even with his injury concerns.<\/p>\n

10. Chicago Bulls: Patrick Ngongba II, Duke, C\/PF<\/h3>\n

The area that the Chicago Bulls need to find a long-term solution for is the center spot. After the deadline, they have found themselves with a glut of guards who can be part of their future. However, the same cannot be said in the middle, even after moving<\/a> Nikola Vucevic<\/a>. With that in mind, they can find an impressive center prospect in Patrick Ngongba II<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The six-foot-eleven Duke big man has had a great sophomore campaign, even behind Boozer. He can reliably provide defense, rebounding, and toughness out of the middle. Not only that, but Ngongba<\/a> is an amazing interior scorer and possesses high upside as a passer. While he isn’t the best shooter and his injury history isn’t the best, Ngongba has the potential to be an extremely solid and consistent starting center. Whether it’s rim protection, rebounding, passing, or scoring, Ngongba can give the Bulls what they need from a modern big for the long haul.<\/p>\n

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11. Charlotte Hornets: Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan, PF<\/h3>\n

The Charlotte Hornets have been on the rise as of late, winning nine of their last 10 games. They have certainly found gems in Kon Knueppel<\/a>, Sion James<\/a>, and Ryan Kalkbrenner<\/a>, which have brought dynamism to the team. Further still, they have a chance to add to their young core with a lottery pick. Using that pick, Charlotte can add to their frontcourt and find much-needed defensive depth. One player who can provide that is Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg<\/a>, who has been one of the top upperclassmen this season.<\/p>\n

While his shot has been off for Michigan, Lendeborg<\/a> is still an athletic forward who impacts the game in so many ways. Not only is he a great interior scorer and solid playmaker, but he is also a talented defensive playmaker and rebounder. If his shot can come back around, Lendeborg can truly be an impactful two-way forward who is NBA-ready from the start.<\/p>\n

12. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta Hawks): Nate Ament, Tennessee, SF<\/h3>\n

Victor Wembanyama<\/a> and the San Antonio Spurs have been spectacular this season, currently ranked second in the West. Even though they are high in the standings, San Antonio has the chance to draft in the lottery once again. They can use that opportunity to shore up their depth on the wings. Wing depth is always needed on NBA teams, and the Spurs are no exception. For this 2026 NBA mock draft, the Spurs will take Tennessee wing Nate Ament<\/a>, who has seen a resurgence this past month.<\/p>\n

The six-foot-ten wing has great positional size and upside as a three-level scorer. Not only that, but Ament<\/a> is a solid rebounder and has the physical tools to be an impactful defender. He certainly needs to develop his strength to unlock more of his game, but the Spurs have the developmental team to draw that out of him. Should he develop properly, Ament can be a key piece to an already-strong San Antonio squad.<\/p>\n

13. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Los Angeles Clippers): Hannes Steinbach, Washington, C\/PF<\/h3>\n

Currently, the Oklahoma City Thunder isn’t getting the top-five pick from the Clippers like they were earlier in the season. However, the reigning champions are still receiving a lottery pick, which they can use to add even more talent. One good area to fortify with the pick is at the center position. Specifically, the Thunder will likely have to move off of Isaiah Hartenstein<\/a> due to complications with the second apron. While they do have Chet Holmgren<\/a> and Thomas Sorber<\/a>, both have injury concerns, with Sorber being out for this season<\/a>.<\/p>\n

One talented prospect that can add to their center depth is Washington big man Hannes Steinbach<\/a>. He can fill a similar role that Hartenstein currently occupies. Specifically, Steinbach can provide high-level interior scoring and rebounding for Oklahoma City. Not only that, but he also possesses some touch as a shooter, too. He has all the talent and skill to be an excellent player for the Thunder while having upside to be more. If the Thunder’s developmental staff can improve his shooting and defense, it will only strengthen the best team in the league.<\/p>\n

14. Portland Trail Blazers: Koa Peat, Arizona, PF<\/h3>\n

For this mock draft, the Portland Trail Blazers will take Arizona forward Koa Peat<\/a> with the 14th overall pick. In Peat<\/a>, they get a well-built forward who uses his strength and skill to be a versatile player out on the court. Not only can he provide scoring at the rim and in the mid-range, but he can also defend multiple positions and rebound well. To be sure, Peat must develop a three-point shot to unlock his full potential, but he can provide Portland with extra depth at the four. Furthermore, Peat has the combination of size, skill, and athleticism to be a long-term contributor for the Blazers and potentially take over Jerami Grant<\/a>‘s spot once he’s gone.<\/p>\n

15. Miami Heat: Thomas Haugh, Florida, SF\/PF<\/h3>\n

Miami is another team that can use depth at the power forward position. Luckily for them, they can find an extremely talented forward in Florida forward Thomas Haugh<\/a>. The NCAA champion stands at six-foot-nine and possesses great length and athleticism. Haugh<\/a> excels as a versatile frontcourt piece who can impact both sides of the ball. He would fit well in Miami’s offensive system due to his strong cutting and slashing ability while showing promise as a shooter. On the defensive end, Haugh can defend multiple positions and be impactful as a defensive playmaker and rebounder. He would be a dynamic frontcourt player for the Heat, bringing his talent and motor to a team that will appreciate both.<\/p>\n

16. Golden State Warriors: Cameron Carr, Baylor, SG\/SF<\/h3>\n

With Jimmy Butler<\/a> lost for the season and Stephen Curry<\/a> in and out of the lineup, Golden State has had a turbulent season. However, they can add a seriously talented player in Cameron Carr<\/a> through the draft. For a team that prioritized three-point shooting and floor spacing, the Warriors would be hard-pressed to find someone who fits better. The six-foot-five wing is one of the best three-point shooters in the class while also having the athleticism to be a serious slasher. Furthermore, Carr has shown tremendous potential as a defensive playmaker, particularly as a weakside shot blocker on the wings. Carr definitely needs to get stronger, and he isn’t the best passer. However, his shooting, athleticism, and defense would be invaluable for a Warriors team that desperately needs all three.<\/p>\n

17. Memphis Grizzlies (via Orlando Magic): Brayden Burries, Arizona, PG\/SG<\/h3>\n

The Grizzlies make their second selection for this mock, and they can still use more long-term depth at the guard position. Alongside Philon, getting Arizona guard Brayden Burries<\/a> would really solidify the guard depth for their rebuild. Burries himself has resurged in recent months, proving himself to be a talented three-level scorer who utilizes his strength and poise to get buckets. He can play with or without the ball, offering both floor-spacing and slashing. Plus, he is a solid passer and defender as well. He certainly has the upside to be an impactful guard for the Grizzlies, especially if he can continue to improve his overall game.<\/p>\n

18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia 76ers): Braylon Mullins, UConn, SG<\/h3>\n

Thunder also makes their second pick of the mock. With it, they’ll take UConn guard Braylon Mullins<\/a>, one of the elite shooters of this year’s draft. Standing at six-foot-six, Mullins<\/a> can give the Thunder another high-level floor spacer who has great positional size. Mullins can be an effective spot-up shooter or movement shooter while knowing how to move off-ball. However, he isn’t just a shooter as he has the skill and athleticism to attack closeouts. He also has tools and motor to be impactful as a defender, too. If his strength can improve under the Oklahoma City developmental staff, he would be another impactful role player for them.<\/p>\n

19. Charlotte Hornets (via Phoenix Suns): Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas, PG<\/h3>\n

While the Hornets currently have LaMelo Ball<\/a>, they can use another talented point guard behind him. To that end, Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr.<\/a> is one of the best guards in the entire class. His ability to be a dangerous three-level scorer and playmaker would get Charlotte even more of a punch off the bench. Together with Coby White, it would be difficult to find a more menacing guard duo amongst the league’s second units. Additionally, should the Hornets look to move Ball in the future, Acuff has the talent and potential to step into a lead guard role for Charlotte. To get such a talented guard like Acuff in the mid-first round would be a massive win for a rising Hornets team.<\/p>\n

20. Toronto Raptors: Bennett Stirtz, Iowa, PG<\/h3>\n

The Toronto Raptors have been a pleasant surprise this season. They have been a competitive team in the Eastern Conference, being fifth in the standings. Plus, Scottie Barnes<\/a> and Brandon Ingram<\/a> will be attending the All-Star game. They have proven themselves to be a tough defensive team, but they do need to upgrade at the point guard spot. The Raptors can find that upgrade in Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz<\/a>. The six-foot-four Stirtz has been one of the most efficient point guards in the class. He is an excellent shooter who is also a great playmaker in his own right. He is the type of player who can help improve Toronto’s spacing and overall offense. Stirtz can play off of Barnes and Ingram as a shooter while also quarterbacking an offense when on the ball. He would be a great addition to the Raptors and a big help to their offense.<\/p>\n

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Feb 11, 2026; College Park, Maryland, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes guard Bennett Stirtz (#14) shoots for three points in the first half against the Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

21. Detroit Pistons (via Minnesota Timberwolves):\u00a0Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers, PF<\/h3>\n

The Detroit Pistons have been another major surprise in the Eastern Conference. They currently hold the first seed, beating out teams like the Knicks and Cavaliers. Plus, they will be sending two players, Cade Cunningham<\/a> and Jalen Duren<\/a>, to the All-Star game. They certainly have a roster that can compete with the best of the best. However, they can still use more depth in the frontcourt, especially at power forward. With that being said, the Pistons will take one of the biggest international prospects<\/a>, New Zealand Breakers forward Karim Lopez<\/a>. The six-foot-seven Lopez is a versatile and physical wing who has demonstrated promise as a shooter and talent as a rebounder. Furthermore, he has flashed skill as a defender, utilizing his athleticism and physical tools. If he can continue to improve as a shooter and defender, Lopez would be an impactful two-way wing for Detroit.<\/p>\n

22. Atlanta Hawks (via Cleveland Cavaliers): Aday Mara, Michigan, C<\/h3>\n

After taking Flemings earlier, the Hawks will also select Michigan center Aday Mara<\/a> for this 2026 NBA mock draft. In Mara, Atlanta will get a truly massive center at seven-foot-three, which would make him the tallest big on the roster. He is one of the nation’s best shot blockers and interior defenders. Plus, Mara is also extremely impactful on the boards for either side of the court. Offensively, Mara brings immense value as a play-finisher who operates well in the pick-and-roll. Furthermore, he is a talented passer for his position, allowing him to facilitate offense from the middle. While he does have questions surrounding his mobility, it would be hard to pass up on a center with such talent and upside.<\/p>\n

23. Los Angeles Lakers: Amari Allen, Alabama, SF\/SG<\/h3>\n

The Los Angeles Lakers are on the clock for this 2026 NBA mock draft, and they will take Alabama wing Amari Allen<\/a>. For a team starved of two-way talent, Allen will be like a godsend for them. The six-foot-seven wing is a solid athlete who fits the bill of being a 3-and-D wing. He has the mobility and athleticism to guard multiple positions. Plus, he uses his physical tools and length well to be disruptive as a defensive playmaker. On the offensive end, he can provide Los Angeles with much-needed floor spacing. However, that’s not all he brings as Allen is more than capable of putting the ball on the floor to attack closeouts. Plus, he is a great connective passer who knows where to move the ball. Despite his tendency toward fouls, Allen would be a massive addition to a Lakers squad that needs everything he brings.<\/p>\n

24. Philadelphia 76ers (via Houston Rockets): Tyler Tanner, Vanderbilt, PG<\/h3>\n

After moving Jared McCain<\/a> to the Thunder, it’s clear that the 76ers need another guard. In a deep point guard class like this, there are still great point guards to be had. One of those prospects is Vanderbilt guard Tyler Tanner<\/a>, who has been a major riser this season. Despite only being six-feet-tall, he can provide Philadelphia with high defensive impact behind Tyrese Maxey<\/a>. In particular, Tanner has been invaluable as a defensive playmaker, which would be a major addition at the guard spot. Additionally, Tanner has been an efficient three-level scorer, weaponizing his speed. Not only that, but Tanner is a capable playmaker in his own right, which would give the Sixers another player who can organize the offense. Tanner is a fantastic player, and his addition to the Sixers would be a major boost to the squad.<\/p>\n

25. Denver Nuggets:\u00a0Christian Anderson, Texas Tech, PG<\/h3>\n

The Denver Nuggets can also use additional guard depth for their team behind Jamal Murray<\/a>. Specifically, they can use additional floor spacing and another guard who can facilitate offense for the Nuggets. That’s where Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson comes into the picture. He is a high-level offensive guard who can score efficiently on all three levels while also being a great playmaker. He can certainly play on and off the ball, allowing him to fit next to Murray or Nikola Jokic<\/a>. With the ball, however, Anderson would give Denver a clear second-unit ball-handler who can provide a spark off the bench.<\/p>\n

26. Boston Celtics: Henri Veesaar, UNC, C<\/h3>\n

The Boston Celtics, despite losing Jayson Tatum<\/a> to an Achilles injury, have remained extremely competitive. They currently occupy the second seed in the Eastern Conference, and Tatum himself may return this season<\/a>. With that being said, they can use additional depth at the center position. While they did acquire Nikola Vucevic<\/a>, he is an older player and isn’t the long-term solution. One talented prospect that would be an amazing fit for Boston is UNC center Henri Veesaar<\/a>. The Estonian seven-footer is a highly versatile big man who excels in multiple areas. He can efficiently score at both the rim and from three while being a solid connective passer. Defensively, he can be a solid rim protector with the mobility to switch on defense in a limited capacity. Veesaar<\/a> fits the bill in terms of Boston’s preference toward versatile big men.<\/p>\n

27. New York Knicks: Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State, PF\/SF<\/h3>\n

New York is a deep team across multiple positions, but they can use another power forward on the roster. In particular, they can use another big forward who can provide immediate impact for the team. Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson<\/a> can provide just that for the Knicks. Standing at six-foot-eight, Jefferson possesses a versatile skill set that allows him to fill many different roles. He can play both on and off the ball, providing off-ball floor spacing and on-ball playmaking. Plus, he has the physical tools, basketball IQ, and overall feel to be an impactful defensive playmaker at the four. He is the type of forward who can provide consistent production for New York.<\/p>\n

28. Cleveland Cavaliers (via San Antonio Spurs): Dailyn Swain, Texas, SF<\/h3>\n

Texas forward Dailyn Swain<\/a> is another productive upperclassman in the class. The six-foot-seven wing can be a big help to the Cleveland Cavaliers, providing them with an impressive slasher who can also be a versatile defender on the wings. Furthermore, Swain is a solid playmaker as well, granting him further versatility as a wing. Improving as a shooter is paramount for Swain to unlock his full potential. However, he has skills that would be immediately useful for a contending Cavaliers team.<\/p>\n

29. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit Pistons):\u00a0Tounde Yessoufou, Baylor, SG\/SF<\/h3>\n

The Minnesota Timberwolves can always use additional size and defense along the perimeter. Baylor wing Tounde Yessoufou<\/a> can provide both while having upside offensively. At six-foot-five with a sturdy frame, Yessoufou has the tools and athleticism to be a versatile wing defender who can cover multiple positions. He knows how to use his tools to force turnovers and be an impactful rebounder for his size. Offensively, Yessoufou is still a work in progress, needing to improve his playmaking and shooting. However, he has shown promise as a driver and mid-range shooter, using his strength to gain favorable position. He would be a good project for a team that prioritizes defense.<\/p>\n

30. Dallas Mavericks (via Oklahoma City Thunder):\u00a0Chris Cenac Jr., Houston, PF\/C<\/h3>\n

The last pick in the first round of this 2026 NBA mock draft goes to Dallas. They will take Houston combo big Chris Cenac Jr.<\/a>, who possesses an intriguing blend of athleticism, physical tools, and size. At six-foot-eleven, Cenac’s blend of athleticism and physical tools makes him a tantalizing defensive prospect. He has the mobility to hang with wings on the perimeter while having the length and size to deal with opposing bigs. Combined with Flagg and Dereck Lively II<\/a>, they would form an incredibly formidable defensive frontcourt. On the offensive end, Cenac has shown potential as a floor spacer and face-up scorer. He utilizes his size and length to shoot over opponents. He needs to find consistency on both ends. However, he has shown impressive improvement this past month. If he can put it all together, Cenac would be extremely valuable for Dallas.<\/p>\n

Featured Image: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Now that the NBA trade deadline has come and gone, it is a great time to release an updated version of LWOS’ 2026 NBA mock draft. Draft picks and players have changed hands, and the ranking of prospects has shifted now that college basketball has entered conference play. Based on the draft order from Tankathon […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5121,"featured_media":177367,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","sfio_featured_image":false,"sfio_embed_code":"","_ef_editorial_meta_date_first-draft-date":"","_ef_editorial_meta_paragraph_assignment":"","_ef_editorial_meta_checkbox_needs-photo":"","_ef_editorial_meta_number_word-count":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1608,2,62,556],"tags":[49942,49353,50331,49715,49782,50010],"class_list":["post-177244","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-basketball","category-featured","category-nba","category-nba-draft","tag-2026-nba-draft","tag-aj-dybantsa","tag-caleb-wilson","tag-cameron-boozer","tag-darryn-peterson","tag-labaron-philon"],"modified_by":"Benjamin Yu","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/177244","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5121"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=177244"}],"version-history":[{"count":21,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/177244\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":177608,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/177244\/revisions\/177608"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/177367"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=177244"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=177244"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=177244"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}