The Washington Wizards are not projected as a lock to pick AJ Dybantsa at No. 1 in the 2026 NBA draft, according to sources within the league. Unlike previous drafts where a clear consensus top prospect emerged, the 2026 class features a deep top four that includes Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer, and Caleb Wilson. This uncertainty has increased the likelihood of teams trading up or down within the top tier.
Dybantsa overtook Peterson during their freshman seasons as the most NBA-ready prospect in the class. The 6'10" forward from BYU showcased a 7'3" wingspan and elite defensive instincts, averaging 13.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His combination of agility and shot-blocking ability draws comparisons to a young Jusuf Nurkić.
Despite his strong play, the Utah Jazz are also heavily linked to Dybantsa. Ryan Smith, the Jazz owner, has strong ties to the BYU program which could influence their decision. The Jazz may offer a trade package to move up from No. 2 to No. 1, though no formal discussions have occurred yet. Utah could also choose to stay at No. 2 and select either Dybantsa or Peterson.
Darryn Peterson is viewed as a better fit for the Jazz’s frontcourt. The 6'11" center from Kansas State has a 7'3" wingspan and averaged 9.8 rebounds per game as a freshman. With Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Walker Kessler already on the roster, Peterson’s high-IQ passing and mobility would complement Utah’s interior depth.
Caleb Wilson, a 6'9" wing from Oregon, is considered a top-four prospect with a 7'1" wingspan. Wilson averaged 17.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game while showing a smooth perimeter stroke. Scouts compare his potential to a young Kevin Porter Jr., given his versatility in spacing and transition.
The draft order remains fluid as teams evaluate how they can best maximize their picks. The Wizards have until the 2026 NBA draft to decide whether to hold the No. 1 pick or trade it. The Jazz will also assess their options as the season progresses. With so many high-upside prospects in the top four, the first round of the 2026 draft could be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory.
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