NBA teams are still waiting for the medical results of Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson, a top prospect whose injury concerns have shifted the draft narrative in favor of BYU’s AJ Dybantsa. The cramping issues that affected Peterson’s freshman season remain a focal point as teams weigh the risk of selecting a player with high upside but lingering health uncertainties.
Sources close to the NBA Draft process told ESPN that Peterson demonstrated maturity and composure during his interviews last week, addressing the challenges of his season with directness and focus. Despite the red flags, Peterson’s physical profile remains attractive. He recorded a plus-5¼ wingspan at the NBA Combine, a measurement that underscores his potential as a versatile wing.
Peterson entered the 2026 draft as the top prospect in the class but has since fallen behind Dybantsa on most mock draft boards. The shift is due in part to Dybantsa’s consistent performance and fewer injury concerns, making the BYU wing a safer bet for teams looking for immediate contributors.
Peterson’s cramping issues were reportedly tied to high doses of creatine, per the player himself. While no long-term damage has been confirmed, the lack of medical clarity has caused teams to hesitate. For now, the Kansas product remains the player with the most upside if the medicals come back clean.
Dybantsa, meanwhile, is gaining traction as a potential top-10 pick. The 6'8", 215-pound forward averaged 18.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game for BYU last season, showcasing a well-rounded skill set and defensive versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor has teams envisioning him as a potential two-way player or even a starter in the NBA.
Peterson, who averaged 14.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game in 2025-26, is still being projected in the top 15 by most analysts. His elite athleticism and basketball IQ make him a tantalizing project for a team willing to take the risk.
The NBA Draft Combine wrapped up last week, and while Peterson’s on-court performance was encouraging, the medical report will play the final role in determining his landing spot. With the draft just weeks away, teams are balancing upside against risk as they finalize their boards.
The NBA Draft is set for June 26. The final decision on Peterson’s medical status is expected within the next two weeks.
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