The 2025 NBA Draft and NBA Summer League are officially over, which means the league is entering its annual quiet stretch with training camp still weeks away.
That makes this the perfect time to turn the page and look ahead to the 2026 NBA Draft class. Early projections point to a generational first four picks, with the rest of the class loaded with talent and star potential.
It’s far too early to know how the class will ultimately shake out, but the intrigue is already building. Here’s an early look at how things could unfold next June in our latest 2026 NBA Mock Draft.
1) Utah Jazz
Cameron Boozer, F, Duke
After finishing with the league’s worst record, the Utah Jazz need frontcourt help beyond Walker Kessler and Lauri Markkanen, who is still a trade candidate. Cameron Boozer, a polished 6’9″ power forward from Duke and son of former Jazz All-Star Carlos Boozer, fits the bill as a foundational piece.
Boozer’s versatile offensive game aligns perfectly with Utah’s needs. He’s an elite rebounder with soft hands, excellent footwork, and the ability to stretch the floor as a pick-and-pop threat. His high basketball IQ, unselfish playmaking, and scoring touch from multiple areas make him a rare, modern big.
Boozer holds his own on defense with strength, positioning, and discipline. Though not a vertical leaper, he uses his body well to protect the paint and handle various assignments. His awareness and effort make him a dependable presence on that end.
With an advanced feel for the game, NBA bloodline, and steady production, Boozer offers both immediate value and long-term potential. He brings the tools to anchor Utah’s frontcourt and energize the fanbase.
2) Washington Wizards
AJ Dybantsa, F, BYU
AJ Dybantsa enters college as a consensus five-star prospect and a top-two high school player across various rankings, including 247Sports. At 6’9″ with elite length and explosiveness, he brings the physical tools and athletic profile of a modern wing. His vertical pop, quick first step, and ability to finish above the rim make him a constant threat in transition and isolation.
Offensively, Dybantsa offers rare versatility. He scores at all three levels, creates off the dribble, and has improved as a passer in pick-and-roll situations. His developing three-point shot keeps defenders honest, and his ability to contribute in both half-court sets and the open floor adds to his value.
Dybantsa impacts the game on defense with energy, switchability, and vocal leadership. He defends multiple positions, pressures the ball full court, and forces turnovers with his size and quickness. His competitive motor and willingness to lead set him apart from other elite prospects.
For a struggling Wizards team in search of a true franchise player, Dybantsa comes at the perfect time. After missing out on Cooper Flagg, Washington can reset its rebuild around a dynamic two-way wing with All-NBA upside.
3) Brooklyn Nets
Darryn Peterson, G, Kansas
Darryn Peterson is a physically mature 18-year-old guard with immediate star potential. At 6’5″ and 195 pounds, Peterson combines elite athleticism with advanced polish, making him arguably the most pro-ready player in his class. His physicality and skill should translate quickly at Kansas and, soon after, to the NBA.
Peterson’s offensive game is impressively complete. He’s a true three-level scorer who can create his own shot, navigate pick-and-rolls, and shoot efficiently from deep. Whether on or off the ball, his footwork, shot selection, and playmaking instincts allow him to thrive in various roles.
Defensively, Peterson’s strength, length, and effort give him real two-way value. He can guard multiple backcourt positions and flashes the awareness of a veteran. His demeanor off the court, low turnover rate, and steady decision-making reinforce his readiness to take on a lead role.
Peterson offers a high floor and superstar upside for a Brooklyn Nets team without a clear franchise player. His skill set, size, and leadership qualities make him the type of guard Brooklyn can build around, even with Cam Thomas in the backcourt.
4) Charlotte Hornets
Nate Ament, F, Tennessee
Nate Ament’s rare combination of size, skill, and long-term upside as a modern wing should appeal to a rebuilding team like the Charlotte Hornets. At 6’9″, Ament brings a fluid handle, smooth pull-up jumper, and shot creation ability that already hints at three-level scoring potential.
NBA scouts are enamored with the upside and talent Nate Ament possesses at 6’10, with guard skills and the ability to defend all over the floor.
Fluid getting to spots, with diverse shot-making prowess, Ament has improved his ball-handling, passing, physicality and intensity. https://t.co/e10BQYwqV9 pic.twitter.com/n9ykrIGLLT
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 20, 2025
Ament’s shooting and high release point make him an ideal floor-spacer next to LaMelo Ball, who thrives on creating looks for perimeter threats. His touch around the rim and improved playmaking give him added versatility, and his size allows him to shoot over defenders easily.
Defensively, Ament uses his length to disrupt passing lanes and rotate as a help defender. He projects as a switchable wing but must bulk up and stay aggressive in physical matchups. His slight frame and occasional passivity are areas for development as he transitions to the pro level.
Though still raw in some areas, Ament’s offensive tools, perimeter scoring potential, and defensive versatility give him one of the highest ceilings in the class.
5) Memphis Grizzlies (via PHX)
Tounde Yessoufou, F, Baylor
Tounde Yessoufou’s elite athleticism, physical strength, and two-way upside align with the Memphis Grizzlies’ immediate roster needs and long-term development goals. At 6’5″, the Baylor commit brings relentless energy and a pro-ready frame that thrives in transition and physical half-court play.
Yessoufou excels as a downhill driver and finisher, using his burst and strength to overpower defenders. He’s made strides with his jumper and handle, flashing scoring growth in big settings like the Nike Hoop Summit, where he scored 24 points against Team USA. While still improving his shot selection, his offensive game continues to expand.
Defensively, Yessoufou stands out with his switchability, motor, and anticipation. He can guard wings and forwards, using his physicality and lateral quickness to disrupt plays. His high energy and willingness to compete on every possession make him an ideal fit for Memphis’ gritty defensive identity.
Yessoufou’s growing offensive skill set and elite defensive tools give the Grizzlies a high-upside wing who could thrive alongside the core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Cedric Coward, and Zach Edey and elevate their transition and perimeter defense.
6) Chicago Bulls
Jayden Quaintance, PF, Kentucky
Jayden Quaintance could be an ideal fit for the Chicago Bulls, who have looming frontcourt needs, especially with Nikola Vucevic entering free agency next offseason. At just 18 years old, Quaintance brings elite physical tools and two-way upside that align with Chicago’s long-term vision.
As a freshman at Arizona State, the 6’9″ Quaintance averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks while shooting 52.5% from the field, according to Sports Reference. His shot-blocking instincts, rebounding presence, and athleticism earned him Big 12 All-Defense and All-Freshman honors before a late-season ACL injury.
Offensively, he’s a strong finisher and lob threat who runs the floor well. Though his jumper and decision-making are still raw, he’s shown flashes of face-up scoring and playmaking potential. His tools suggest room to evolve into a more dynamic offensive weapon.
On the defensive end, Quaintance is already impactful around the rim and has the mobility to switch on the perimeter. Now, he’ll continue refining his skills at Kentucky as a physically mature, switchable big.
7) Portland Trail Blazers
Karim Lopez, F, NZ Breakers
Karim Lopez possesses a unique skill set that fits seamlessly with the Portland Trail Blazers’ young core. At 6’8″, the 18-year-old forward from Mexico has gained valuable pro experience in the NBL’s Next Stars program, steadily improving as a perimeter shooter and efficient offensive contributor.
Lopez’s game is built on versatility and strong instincts. He handles the ball like a guard, initiates offense, and defends multiple positions with energy and awareness. His rebounding, hustle, and team-first mentality stood out professionally, showcasing his maturity and high motor.
While he lacks a dominant strength, Lopez’s well-rounded skill set, improving jumper, and physical tools point to long-term NBA potential. Continued growth as a shooter and ball-handler could make him a highly effective two-way role player.
Lopez is a high-upside forward who can impact both ends of the floor. His international experience and adaptability align well with the Blazers’ upward trajectory after reuniting with Damian Lillard.
8) Sacramento Kings
Mikel Brown Jr., G, Louisville
The Sacramento Kings have yet to fill the playmaking void left by De’Aaron Fox’s departure. With a need for perimeter creation and offensive versatility, Mikel Brown Jr. brings dynamic scoring, passing, and shooting potential to a retooled backcourt.
At 6’3″, Brown flashes elite quickness, a shifty handle, and sharp vision in pick-and-roll settings. He’s a natural creator with a smooth jumper and deep range, though streaky shooting remains an area for improvement. At Louisville, he’s expected to emerge as the team’s lead playmaker.
Though undersized and still adding strength, Brown’s high basketball IQ, rim pressure, and transition instincts give him legitimate starter upside. His two-way engagement continues to improve, rounding out a skill set that makes him one of the draft’s top point guard prospects.
The Kings added Dennis Schröder but still lack a long-term lead guard. Brown offers immediate offensive spark and long-term growth.
9) Atlanta Hawks (via NOP)
Dash Daniels, G, Melbourne United
Dash Daniels’ defensive versatility, growing offensive game, and strong two-way potential could make him a strong fit for the Atlanta Hawks. It would also allow him to play with his older brother, Dyson Daniels. Dash Daniels brings a similarly competitive edge and defensive mindset.
At 6’5″, Daniels impressed at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup with his ability to impact both ends. He uses his length, instincts, and strength to guard multiple positions, often taking on the toughest backcourt assignments.
Offensively, Daniels is a creative playmaker and improving scorer with a smooth release and advanced shot-creation for his age. While his shooting consistency and handle still need work, his ability to score at all three levels and generate offense adds real value.
As he heads into another NBL season, Daniels will look to solidify his lottery status by sharpening his scoring and staying defensively dominant. He offers the Hawks a unique chance to pair two high-motor, defensive-minded guards while adding another long-term two-way contributor to their backcourt.
10) Toronto Raptors
Chris Cenac Jr., PF/C, Houston
Chris Cenac Jr.’s rare mix of size, athleticism, and defensive upside could address the Toronto Raptors’ pressing need for a rim-protecting big. At 6’10” with a 7’4″ wingspan, Cenac brings immediate physical tools the frontcourt currently lacks.
Cenac is a mobile, high-motor big man who runs the floor well, protects the rim, and switches defensively. His shot-blocking instincts and ability to defend in space make him a strong candidate to anchor Toronto’s current and long-term defense.
Offensively, he shows developing versatility with a soft post touch, face-up scoring, and promising shooting range. His ability to attack off the dribble and make smart passes adds unique playmaking potential for a center.
Though still working on his ball security and footwork, Cenac’s tools and upside fit Toronto’s timeline. He provides a modern frontcourt solution as an athletic, versatile big who can grow into a two-way centerpiece for the Raptors.
11) Miami Heat
Koa Peat, F, Arizona
The Miami Heat could use a player like Koa Peat, whose physical maturity, high motor skills, and two-way versatility match the team’s identity, which is built on toughness and smart basketball. His ability to impact both ends makes him an ideal long-term fit.
Peat, an Arizona commit, is one of the most physically ready prospects in the 2025 class. At 6’8″ with a strong frame and polished footwork, he thrives in the mid-post, finishes with touch, and dominates around the basket using strength and feel rather than raw explosiveness.
His offensive game is evolving, with reliable mid-range touch and signs of developing three-point range. He also shows solid playmaking instincts, often facilitating in transition or out of short rolls, reflecting a high basketball IQ and unselfish mindset.
Defensively, Peat offers versatility as a power forward or small-ball center, using effort, awareness, and strength to disrupt plays. Though he’ll need to improve lateral quickness, his rebounding, toughness, and all-around impact make him a natural fit for the Heat’s system.
12) Memphis Grizzlies
Caleb Wilson, F, North Carolina
Caleb Wilson’s elite physical tools, defensive versatility, and long-term upside could make him an enticing fit for the Grizzlies’ frontcourt alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey. At 6’9″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Wilson’s quickness, bounce, and mobility make him an ideal modern forward who can guard multiple positions.
Offensively, Wilson thrives as a secondary scorer and transition finisher with strong passing instincts for his size. While his deep shooting is still developing, his fluid athleticism and midrange touch hint at significant scoring upside as he grows at North Carolina.
On defense, Wilson is a standout help defender and shot blocker. His instincts, length, and lateral mobility allow him to protect the rim and cover ground quickly.
Drafting Wilson gives the Grizzlies a high-motor, multi-positional forward who can make an immediate defensive impact and evolve into a well-rounded offensive piece.
13) Indiana Pacers
Tomislav Ivišić, C, Illinois
After letting Myles Turner walk in free agency, the Indiana Pacers should take a long, hard look at Tomislav Ivišić, who possesses a rare offensive skill set for a 7’1″ center. The Illinois big man combines strength, touch, and legitimate floor-spacing ability.
He shot 35.7% from three on high volume for the Illini last season, a feat not often seen from a player his size.
Ivišić adds value as a physical interior presence with the versatility to stretch defenses. He also excels as a passer, consistently making advanced reads and delivering accurate passes. He finishes nicely with both hands, has a polished post game, and sets strong screens that free up teammates. His shooting form is quick and high, allowing him to shoot over defenders easily.
Defensively, Ivišić controls the paint with size and positioning, but limited lateral movement and athleticism raise concerns. He’s solid on the glass and against screens, but can struggle to defend in space or recover quickly. Improving footwork and anticipation will be key to maximizing his two-way potential.
If his defense develops, he could become a high-impact rotation player or starter who complements their fast-paced, spread-out attack and provides long-term upside at center.
14) San Antonio Spurs (via ATL)
Yaxel Lendeborg, F, Michigan
The San Antonio Spurs have built a promising young core and get even stronger by adding Yaxel Lendeborg. A 6’9″, 240-pound forward coming off a dominant season at UAB, he averaged an impressive 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 52.2% from the field and 35.7% from 3-point range.
YAXEL LENDEBORG POSTER pic.twitter.com/zDyNu28CVY
— UAB Men’s Basketball (@UAB_MBB) February 29, 2024
Lendeborg posted multiple standout performances, including a remarkable game with 30 points, 20 rebounds, eight assists, five steals, and four blocks during the American Conference Tournament, showcasing his ability to impact all facets of the game.
As a versatile power forward, Lendeborg combines physical strength and length with the skill to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and facilitate offense. He can score efficiently inside, hit threes, and create for teammates with solid passing and capable ball handling.
Defensively, he thrives as a rebounder and shot blocker, using his timing and length to influence the game.
Lendeborg chose to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft to transfer to Michigan, a move aimed at boosting his draft stock by showcasing his all-around skills on a bigger stage and against stronger competition. His game embodies the versatility, physicality, and basketball IQ that the Spurs value, especially as they continue developing their core and building toward future contention.
15) Milwaukee Bucks
Bennett Stirtz, G, Iowa
After Damian Lillard’s departure, drafting Bennett Stirtz would bolster the Milwaukee Bucks’ backcourt. Stirtz offers a polished, efficient offensive game and high basketball IQ, making him a strong fit for a team that needs steady perimeter play and creative scoring.
The 6’4″ senior guard impressed at Drake, averaging 19.2 points, 5.7 assists, and shooting nearly 40% from three. His path from Division II to Iowa via Drake shows adaptability and consistent growth. Named Missouri Valley Player of the Year, he’s proven capable of leading an offense against quality competition.
Stirtz thrives in pick-and-rolls, makes smart passes, and moves well off the ball. While not an elite athlete, his crafty ball handling, efficient scoring, and balanced offensive game make him valuable for modern NBA systems focused on versatility and spacing.
Though he may struggle defensively at the next level due to limited burst, his offensive skill set and basketball feel outweigh that concern. Stirtz offers Milwaukee reliable guard depth with strong shooting, decision-making, and the ability to contribute in multiple roles.
16) Boston Celtics
Nikolas Khamenia, F, Duke
The Boston Celtics’ frontcourt looks rather thin heading into 2025 after Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury, Luke Kornet’s departure in free agency, and Al Horford’s unlikely return. With Boston expected to take a step back next season, Nikolas Khamenia is an upside bet.
A Duke commit, Khamenia’s all-around game complements the Celtics’ system and provides valuable depth at the forward spot. At 6’8″ and 215 pounds, Khamenia is a high-level passer with advanced court vision and quick decision-making. His ability to facilitate offense from multiple spots, with footwork and shot-fake savvy, makes him a strong candidate for a point-forward role in the NBA.
Khamenia is a reliable shooter from three and mid-range, creating spacing with off-ball movement and catch-and-shoot ability. Though not an elite athlete, his improved strength and instinctive positioning allow him to contribute offensively as both a scorer and occasional lob threat.
Defensively, he’s sound and vocal, using instincts and effort to make up for average lateral quickness. Khamenia offers an immediate fit and long-term upside as a floor-spacing, playmaker who can guard multiple spots.
17) Oklahoma City Thunder (via PHI)
Braylon Mullins, G, UConn
Braylon Mullins is far from a perfect prospect, but his elite shooting, scoring versatility, and defensive competitiveness fit well with the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The UConn commit’s ability to stretch the floor and contribute on both ends makes him an ideal two-way fit for a young, ascending roster.
At 6’5″, Mullins is a dangerous shooter off the catch, screens, or dribble. He has deep range and a lightning-quick release. Though not a high-flyer, he’s a good finisher at the rim and has shown flashes of assertive scoring.
Mullins also brings strong ball skills, off-ball movement, and creative finishing. He’s an instinctive passer and three-level scoring threat who understands offensive flow, giving coaches a versatile weapon to build around.
Defensively, Mullins is quick, engaged, and competitive. Despite a lean frame, he plays tough and confidently. His top-tier shotmaking and defense give Oklahoma City a high-upside guard who can grow into a core contributor on both ends.
18) Atlanta Hawks (via SAS)
Darius Acuff Jr., G, Arkansas
The Hawks could benefit from adding Darius Acuff Jr., a dynamic 6’2″ lead guard whose scoring, playmaking, and physicality fit their long-term backcourt needs. Acuff earned national honors, including 2025 Allen Iverson Player of the Year and McDonald’s All-American, showcasing his elite status among point guard prospects.
He thrives in pick-and-rolls, easily creates his shot, and finishes through contact around the rim. Acuff’s combination of downhill speed, tight handle, and shotmaking makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. He also rebounds well and uses his strength to disrupt opposing guards defensively.
With Trae Young holding a player option after this season, the Hawks may need a guard who can lead the second unit now and grow into a larger role later. Acuff’s three-level scoring, toughness, and improving vision offer immediate bench value and long-term upside.
The Arkansas commit brings traits Atlanta needs to reinforce its guard depth and prepare for future roster shifts. Acuff and Daniels help solidify the Hawks’ backcourt for years to come.
19) Detroit Pistons
Isaiah Evans, F, Duke
Isaiah Evans is a talented 6’6″ wing with elite shooting and scoring versatility that fills a need for the Detroit Pistons. With Malik Beasley’s unresolved legal situation, Evans offers perimeter spacing and an offensive spark, with the tools to grow into a dependable two-way contributor.
As a freshman at Duke, Evans averaged 6.8 points in under 14 minutes while shooting 41.6% from three. His quick release, NBA-range shooting, and ability to score off movement or the dribble make him a dangerous perimeter threat with high-upside scoring potential.
Evans has flashed signs of becoming a more complete scorer, showing transition effectiveness and some inside finishing touch. Defensively, his length and anticipation help him pressure the ball and disrupt plays, though adding strength will be key for NBA matchups.
With more opportunity in his sophomore year, Evans could showcase expanded shot creation and playmaking. If his offensive role grows and his defense sharpens, he’s a natural fit for a Pistons team trending upward in the Eastern Conference.
20) Dallas Mavericks
Dame Sarr, G/F, Duke
The Dallas Mavericks’ arrow is pointing up. Dame Sarr’s size, athleticism, and international polish should mesh with their evolving core alongside Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and Cooper Flagg. His two-way potential and positional versatility make him an ideal developmental piece for Dallas’s long-term vision.
At 6’6″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Sarr can guard multiple perimeter spots and play above the rim. His athleticism, defensive instincts, and EuroLeague experience give him an edge as a disruptive, high-motor wing who’s already been tested in elite competition overseas.
Offensively, Sarr excels in transition, attacking closeouts, and finishing at the rim. While his jumper and decision-making remain inconsistent, his flashes as a passer and creator hint at untapped potential, especially if his outside shooting stabilizes during his season at Duke.
With strong tools and pro-ready experience, Sarr fits Dallas’s need for length, athleticism, and defense on the wing.
21) Golden State Warriors
Patrick Ngongba II, C, Duke
The Golden State Warriors must address their frontcourt depth with Kevon Looney’s exit and Draymond Green getting older. Duke’s Patrick Ngongba II could be their guy. With near-7-foot size, strength, and length, Ngongba brings a much-needed physical presence and interior reliability to a roster needing youth and size up front.
Ngongba thrives as a low-post scorer with soft hands, polished footwork, and a high release. While not an explosive athlete, he is efficient, steady, and gradually expanding his offensive game beyond the paint, hinting at inside-out potential.
His offensive feel extends beyond scoring. He passes well, reads double teams, and operates smoothly in pick-and-roll and dribble handoff actions. His fundamentals and decision-making give him potential as a reliable offensive anchor in half-court sets.
Defensively, Ngongba controls the paint with strength, positioning, and timing. As a freshman, he averaged 10.1 rebounds per 40 minutes, suggesting he could have a greater impact with more playing time. Though limited laterally, he’s improved since overcoming early injuries and offers the interior toughness the Warriors need now and in the long term.
22) Los Angeles Lakers
Cayden Boozer, G, Duke
Cayden Boozer, the son of former Jazz star Carlos Boozer and twin brother of Cameron, would bring advanced playmaking IQ, positional size, and a winning pedigree to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Duke commit fits their need for a steady floor general who can complement Luka Dončić and bring structure to the second unit.
CAYDEN BOOZER HITS A GAME-WINNER TO DEFEAT BREWSTER ACADEMY #ChipotleNationals pic.twitter.com/vTqmn1xy28
— SportsCenter NEXT (@SCNext) April 4, 2025
At just under 6’4″ and 205 pounds, Boozer uses his mature frame to create passing angles and see over defenders. He thrives as a facilitator and controls pace with poise. His feel for the game, vision, and decision-making translate cleanly to the next level.
He’s not an elite athlete, but Boozer scores with craft and touch, particularly using a reliable floater in the lane. His three-point shot is a swing skill, as continued progress suggests long-term potential as a capable shooter.
Defensively, Boozer’s awareness and anticipation help offset his limited footspeed. He offers the Lakers a stabilizing presence with proven leadership, high-level production, and a winning background that could grow into a key rotation piece.
23) Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC)
Karter Knox, F, Arkansas
Karter Knox is a dynamic, high-upside wing who flashed significant growth during his freshman year at Arkansas, especially late in the season. He blends straight-line explosiveness with an improving jumper, giving him three-level scoring ability. Knox is dangerous downhill, effective at the rim, and capable of creating his own shot.
Defensively, Knox’s size and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions and contribute as a team defender. While his offense still needs fine-tuning, especially his ball-handling and shooting off the catch, his physical tools and scoring instincts make him a strong developmental prospect.
He averaged 8.3 points and 3.3 rebounds on 46.2% shooting, including 35% from three. His production trended upward in the second half, and he’s expected to take on a larger offensive role next season. While not NBA-ready immediately, his long-term upside makes him worth investing in.
Knox fits Oklahoma City’s patient approach to player development. His strength, scoring versatility, and two-way potential would complement their young core while adding another long, athletic wing that can grow into a high-impact rotation piece.
24) Minnesota Timberwolves
Tahaad Pettiford, G, Auburn
The Minnesota Timberwolves don’t have a clear-cut long-term answer at point guard, especially with Mike Conley aging and Rob Dillingham still unproven. Tahaad Pettiford’s scoring and playmaking skill set could add tremendous value to Minnesota’s backcourt.
As a freshman at Auburn, Pettiford averaged 11.6 points and 3.0 assists in under 23 minutes per game. He showcased a quick first step, reliable floater, and crafty finishing, particularly with his left hand. Though still developing as a full-time facilitator, he’s flashed advanced playmaking traits.
On defense, Pettiford plays with toughness despite his smaller frame. With an expanded role next season, he’s expected to emerge as a top SEC guard and a possible Player of the Year candidate. His combine showing and flashes of first-round upside caught scouts’ attention in this past draft cycle.
Selecting Pettiford would give Minnesota a young, explosive guard to develop behind Conley while adding backcourt depth and scoring punch.
25) Charlotte Hornets (via ORL)
JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech
The Hornets should continue bolstering their depleted frontcourt after trading Mark Williams on draft night. JT Toppin brings elite athleticism, defensive versatility, and a high motor, which should appeal to a rebuilding team like Charlotte.
As a sophomore at Texas Tech, Toppin averaged 18.2 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 55.4% from the field. His dominant season earned him Big 12 Player of the Year and All-American honors, solidifying his status as one of the top big men in college basketball.
Defensively, Toppin is a standout shot-blocker and rebounder, using his 7’0.5″ wingspan, motor, and instincts to control the paint. His timing and mobility make him a strong rim protector and a reliable anchor for any defensive unit.
Offensively, he’s a high-efficiency finisher and roll threat with a soft touch around the rim. While his perimeter game is still developing, the foundation is in place for him to grow into a more complete offensive player.
26) Cleveland Cavaliers
Isiah Harwell, G, Houston
The Cleveland Cavaliers could target Isiah Harwell to reinforce their elite 3-point shooting and add two-way stability to their backcourt. Harwell’s shooting ability and defensive versatility directly address Cleveland’s need for reliable, high-IQ guard depth.
Harwell, a 6’6″ Houston commit, is one of the most polished two-way prospects in the 2026 draft class. He boasts a smooth shooting stroke with deep range, excels in the midrange, and uses advanced footwork to score over defenders. His strength allows him to finish through contact and even elevate at the rim.
Off the ball, Harwell is a sharp cutter who thrives in structured systems, minimizes unnecessary dribbling, and makes smart reads. He guards multiple positions with physicality and awareness on defense, often contributing on the boards thanks to his strong frame.
Harwell projects as a high-floor, 3-and-D guard who would immediately boost Cleveland’s shooting and team defense.
27) New York Knicks
Brayden Burries, G, Arizona
Brayden Burries could become a long-term backcourt solution for the New York Knicks thanks to his scoring versatility, physicality, and defensive motor. His skill set aligns with New York’s desire for tough, versatile guards.
Burries, a 6’4″ Arizona commit, dominated high school competition as California’s Gatorade Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-American. Averaging 29.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.9 steals per game, per MaxPreps, he impressed with his three-level scoring, strong frame, and off-ball versatility.
He thrives in isolation, using advanced footwork and strength to finish through contact or create space for floaters, runners, and midrange shots. He’s not an elite leaper, but Burries compensates with creativity, body control, and polished technique.
Defensively, he brings toughness and versatility. He can guard both backcourt spots while rebounding well and disrupting passing lanes. His feel for the game and two-way potential make him an ideal fit for a Knicks team competing for a title.
28) Denver Nuggets
Labaron Philon, G, Alabama
The Denver Nuggets should look to add another talented point guard to the roster, with unproven production behind Jamal Murray. Labaron Philon offers long-term upside, boasting controlled pacing, advanced playmaking, and scoring versatility. His composed game and high basketball IQ should fit well in a Denver offense centered around Nikola Jokić.
As a freshman, the 6’4″ Philon averaged 10.6 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. He showed poise in pick-and-roll play and excellent vision. His shifty handle and change-of-pace moves let him create with precision and creativity for himself and teammates.
Philon’s offensive strength lies in his touch and footwork, particularly on floaters and midrange shots. While he lacks burst and power, his solid free-throw numbers suggest his perimeter game will grow with confidence.
Defensively, he’s a quick, disruptive presence who competes hard despite his lean 177-pound frame. If Philon builds strength and improves shot consistency, he could evolve into a high-IQ, two-way contributor in Denver’s rotation.
29) Oklahoma City Thunder (via HOU)
Alex Condon, C, Florida
With their third first-round pick, the Thunder should attack the center position, as Isaiah Hartenstein could be gone after the 2025 season. Alex Condon’s size, mobility, and winning pedigree make him a solid fit in Oklahoma City.
A key piece of Florida’s 2025 national title team, Condon brings energy, versatility, and a well-rounded skill set that fits Sam Presti’s developmental model.
At 6’11”, Condon excels as a pick-and-pop threat who rebounds well, runs the floor, and finishes through contact. His 2.2 assists per game highlight his playmaking instincts, and he’s comfortable scoring inside or stretching defenses with his range.
Defensively, Condon moves well laterally and can switch onto wings or provide rim protection. While he needs to get stronger and reduce fouls, his defensive tools and effort make him an intriguing fit alongside Oklahoma City’s young bigs like Thomas Sorber.
Returning to Florida for another year, Condon aims to polish his post play and shooting. With continued growth, he projects as a stretch big with two-way upside.
30) Washington Wizards (via OKC)
Thomas Haugh, PF, Florida
The Wizards could benefit from strengthening their frontcourt through the draft. Thomas Haugh’s high-energy style, athleticism, and versatility complement big men Alex Sarr and Tristan Vukčević while addressing Washington’s need for depth and two-way role players.
Thomas Haugh earned significant NBA attention with the many ways he impacts winning with his toughness, feel for the game, defensive versatility and passing. Huge news for Todd Golden to get him back for his junior season. Improving his 34% 3P% will be key for his NBA outlook. https://t.co/WaEdiENz8j pic.twitter.com/P2MhZ8RYl6
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 25, 2025
A 6’9″ forward and key reserve on Florida’s 2025 national title team, Haugh flashed a balanced offensive skill set. He can knock down threes, attack closeouts, and make smart passes. He’s expected to take on a bigger role in 2025, which could boost his draft stock.
Haugh’s motor, rebounding, and mobility stand out. He runs the floor well, has a soft shooting touch, and defends with physicality. Though not a go-to scorer, he thrives as a connector piece who understands his role and brings consistent effort.
Haugh must improve his perimeter shooting consistency and defensive polish to solidify himself as a first-rounder. Still, his combination of floor spacing, toughness, and unselfish attitude makes him a strong fit for Washington’s rebuild.
