Darryn Peterson from Kansas is an early pick to go No. 1 in the 2026 Draft. (Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2026 NBA Draft on Bleacher Report. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its teams.
The Mock Draft below is not the official Draft order, but merely reflects the current NBA standings.
(B/R) — NBA scouts are entering a busy and crucial stretch with all the non-conference tournaments underway.
They’re still waiting on Darryn Peterson’s return to Kansas from a hamstring injury. Regardless, the Peterson versus Cameron Boozer and AJ Dybantsa debate seems like it will remain fluid throughout the year.
North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson could make the rebuilding teams’ decisions even tougher if he continues at his current rate.
With NIL, projecting one-and-done freshmen in the 20s and 30s becomes trickier. But we’ve added a few new names to our final update of November, mostly because of the rising confidence in their pro potential.
1. Washington Wizards: Darryn Peterson (Kansas)
Position: SG | Size: 6’6″, 205 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Anthony Edwards
A hamstring injury may continue to keep Darryn Peterson sidelined after he combined for 43 points on 25 shots through two games. There is now some uncertainty around its severity and a return date for a potential No. 1 overall pick.
From the early tape he’s delivered, it’s looked like fairly seamless transition for Peterson. He’s appeared ultra-quick and slithery getting to his spots. The tough shotmaking has been shown, particularly from off the ball with his catch-and-shoot game.
Aggressive defensively, he’s already blown up multiple plays and turned them into fastbreak points the other way.
Everything looks on track for Peterson in terms of his creation translating, his perimeter firepower and two-way impact.
2. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Cameron Boozer (Duke)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 250 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Paolo Banchero
Cameron Boozer has punished mid-major schools early on. Some issues finishing against Texas and Kansas have scouts wanting to see more against ranked and ACC opponents.
There are scouts who’ll feel more comfortable with AJ Dybantsa’s advantageous positional size, athleticism and shotmaking. But there will also be NBA front offices that put extra stock into Boozer’s intangibles, particularly the IQ and processing that have consistently contributed to his team winning in every setting at every level.
On brand, Boozer ranks No. 2 in the nation in box plus-minus. He leads Duke in assists by making good reads out of double teams, advancing the ball in transition and knowing where open shooters are when he catches in the middle of the floor.
Skeptics may worry about lack of explosion or reliance on bully ball in side, but Boozer also has 10 threes and plenty of flashes of attacking closeouts with his dribble and body control.
3. Indiana Pacers: AJ Dybantsa (BYU)
Position: SF | Size: 6’9″ | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Jaylen Brown
The early tape on AJ Dybantsa aligns with the preseason scouting report.
He’s still clearly at his best in attack mode using his frame, extension and coordination. He’s overpowering on drives. The mid-range footwork and perimeter footwork are sharp for creating space, while his positional size and release point contribute to uncontested looks.
High-level shotmaking skills have always been evident, and we’re consistently seeing Dybantsa knock down fallaways and pull-ups.
His handle in tight spaces could improve, and we’ve yet to see many signs of off-ball scoring, as almost every point he’s generated has been in ball-screen, isolation, post-up or transition situations.
Tough shot selection, decision-making and three-point shooting are the only question marks that could turn scouts off when assessing Dybantsa versus Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer.
4. Brooklyn Nets: Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 215 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Scottie Barnes
The idea that the 2026 draft may now have a big four has been discussed. Caleb Wilson’s offensive emergence and production have become major storylines, with the freshman averaging 20.6 points on 67.3 percent shooting to go with 10.0 boards, 2.6 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.8 blocks.
He leads the nation in box plus-minus.
Wilson also has more dunks than anyone in the country with 24 in just five games. His motor and bounce were well-documented heading into the season, but he’s also earning easy baskets using his handle to get to spots and slice through defenses. And he’s generating his own scoring opportunities and buckets with quick moves from the post and tough shotmaking around the key.
Flashes of high-IQ passing and shooting range—plus the defensive tools and movement that were always signature selling points deemed translatable—suddenly suggest Wilson is separating into a clear top-five prospect.
5. Sacramento Kings: Nate Ament (Tennessee)
Position: SF | Size: 6’10”, 207 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Zaccharie Risacher
At 6’10”, Nate Ament’s ability to simply turn and shoot over defenders has stood out first. As his handle improves, he has the potential to become a unique shot-creator with his release point, while he clearly shows shotmaking ability from different spots between the mid-range and behind the arc.
He is also listed at 207 pounds, a substantial and important bump up from previous listings.
It’s obvious and mostly accepted that Ament, more of a late-bloomer compared to this class’ Big Three, remains on the raw side. Limited explosion and decisiveness executing off the dribble, mixed with a lack of physicality, will likely hold him back in certain matchups throughout the season.
6. Charlotte Hornets: Koa Peat (Arizona)
Position: PF | Size: 6’8″, 235 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: PJ Washington
Considered a polarizing pro prospect entering the season, Koa Peat may have instantly changed the conversation by dropping 30 points and five assists on Florida’s veteran frontcourt.
Alex Condon (230 lbs) and Rueben Chinyelu (265 lbs) had no answers for Peat’s footwork, touch and strength around the key. He was able to consistently separate into his signature short-range fallaways or use his athleticism to finish plays over the top, and we saw this again in Arizona’s win over Connecticut.
He could still divide scouts on his upside, with some likely to buy the tools and polish, while others may question the translatability of a 6’8″ power forward with limited range and a reliance on hitting contested two-point jumpers. But assuming he continues to produce, his effectiveness and maturity at 18 years should win out.
7. Dallas Mavericks: Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville)
Position: PG | Size: 6’5″, 180 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Anfernee Simons
Mikel Brown Jr.’s 29-point, five-assist effort against Kentucky has been one of the more validating, early-season efforts among the preseason’s projected top prospects.
He operates with a noticeable confidence, bounce to his step, speed and coordination. He seems in control of his defender with his handle/command and change of speed. The shotmaking may be inconsistent, but it’s potent and threatening whenever he’s able to rise up.
On the downside, he takes some low-percentage hero threes. He’ll have to add more counter offense inside the arc with his pull-up or floater, rather than rely on hard drives or drawing fouls. A high turnover rate also reflects some ambitious decision-making and over-confidence.
8. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky)
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 255 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Bam Adebayo
Last February’s ACL tears complicate projections for Jayden Quaintance. We have seen him getting in on-court work before games, which should at least mean he’s progressing toward an eventual return.
He played 24 games as a 17-year-old last year, giving scouts plenty to consider for his long-term potential. He’s one of the youngest players in this class, not turning 19 until after the 2026 draft. At Arizona State, he averaged 9.4 points per game, shot 60 percent inside the arc, and posted an impressive 9.8 percent block rate—all standout numbers for a freshman.
While he still has to improve his shooting range and overall half-court creation, he’ll offer the type of functional physical tools, instincts and potential skill set that can translate to scoring efficiency and a special defensive impact in the NBA.
9. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Jazz): Kingston Flemings (Houston)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: George Hill
Kingston Flemings has been one of the freshmen class’ early standouts, due to his production and the specific scoring/playmaking methods and execution behind it.
His 22-point, seven-assist, five-board performance against Auburn was validating after a strong start against inferior opponents.
Flemings has been efficient across the board, demonstrating a tight handle for getting to spots, speed, body control and touch on drives/finishes, a threatening mid-range game with a high release, willing vision and passing IQ and capable shooting range early on.
While he profiles as a lead guard, he’s looked comfortable so far attacking closeouts and playing off the ball.
10. Memphis Grizzlies: Labaron Philon Jr. (Alabama)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Mike Conley
A second-half takeover session against Illinois highlighted Labaron Philon Jr.’s confidence and comfort level operating as Alabama’s primary option.
The early signs of shooting improvement are most noteworthy, and he’ll need to sustain this level of three-point volume to warrant top-10 interest. Right now it’s still Philon’s ability to get to spots that NBA teams will be after. He’s able to create advantages, rim pressure and open shots for teammates with a level of tight ball-handling, shiftiness and paint footwork that scouts should deem translatable.
Philon had one of the best floaters in the country last year, and he’s looked tougher at the rim so far this season finishing after contact.
11. Portland Trail Blazers: Karim Lopez (New Zealand Breakers)
Position: PF | Size: 6’8″, 225 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Mexico
Pro Comp: Patrick Williams
Karim Lopez continues to shoot well in the NBL, a potentially important development for a 6’8″, 225-pound 18-year-old. He’s already tough around the basket using strength and touch, but it’s the perimeter flashes that create coveted scoring versatility and perceived upside.
Lopez needs to improve defensively, and he lacks an in-between game without any post-up skill or pull-up jumper.
Still, at his size and age with his level of production against pros, scouts will continue to be drawn to his physical tools, ball-handling/driving fluidity and spot-up threes.
12. Milwaukee Bucks: Braylon Mullins (UConn)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 190 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Payton Pritchard
An ankle injury will delay Braylon Mullins’ debut another month. Scouts should quickly detect and covet his shooting efficiency, defensive toughness and IQ upon his return. He’ll be one of the top freshmen three-point threats whose 6’5″ size and shotmaking diversity will interest NBA scouts.
In the Adidas 3SSB circuit last year, he shot 41.7 percent from deep but also racked up 19 dunks in 20 games, showing he can thrive behind the arc and play above the rim.
At Connecticut, he’ll likely be used mostly off the ball spotting up, hitting movement threes and cutting. However, Mullins can be a lethal transition player as well with his quick release, pull-up game and athleticism.
13. Boston Celtics: Hannes Steinbach (Washington)
Position: C | Size: 6’11” | Age: 19 | Country: Germany
Pro Comp: Moe Wagner
The combination of 6’11’ size, soft touch and sticky hands have been effective for Hannes Steinbach early. And though he plays mostly below the rim in the half court off two feet, he’s flashed some athletic pop finishing plays in the open floor.
Between his footwork handling the ball, the big rebounding numbers and smart passing, he has looked like a polished, multidimensional center.
The flashes guarding in space and making weakside rejections have been encouraging as well. Steinbach emerging as a defensive plus sends him into a new tier on boards.
14. Memphis Grizzlies: Bennett Stirtz (Iowa)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Malcolm Brogdon
It’s looked easy for Bennett Stirtz through five games against a weak strength of schedule. It picks up in December, though all signs point to him continuing to have success navigating through defenses, hitting threes and making high-IQ playmaking reads.
Age will work against him in the draft and cast a light cloud over his production. At the least, NBA teams will see a high-floor, low-risk rotational guard with the skill level to execute in pick-and-rolls or use his size and shooting off the ball.
15. Golden State Warriors: Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’3″, 190 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Deron Williams
Darius Acuff Jr. has showcased his shiftiness off the dribble, shotmaking and vision in ball-screen situations. He’s looked physical finishing at the rim, dangerous with his dribble/changing speeds and threatening both pulling up and stepping into jumpers.
Preseason questions about his size or shot selection will disappear if he’s able to continue shooting with confidence, avoiding contested shots and showing off playmaking IQ.
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston)
Position: PF | Size: 6’11”, 240 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Jabari Smith Jr.
Chris Cenac Jr. has been productive and efficient by finishing plays and knocking down jumpers. The 6’11” size, athleticism at the rim and shotmaking create a perceived easy fit and high floor. He’s hitting fallaways from the post and rhythm threes.
The lack of defensive playmaking and passing just make it tougher to picture pathways to upside. Scouts may start to question how strongly he’ll impact games if he’s not shooting well.
17. Chicago Bulls: Dame Sarr (Duke)
Position: SF | Size: 6’8″, 190 lbs | Age: 19 | Nationality: Italy
Pro Comp: Justise Winslow
Dame Sarr has established his value early with spot-up shooting, transition finishing and point-of-attack defense.
The lack of ball-handling and dropped passes paint him as raw. Scouts will want to have confidence in his shooting, given his lack of creation or passing. But so far, Sarr has looked comfortable spotting up from three, and scouts should feel good about his tools and athleticism for slashing and defending.
18. New York Knicks: Matt Able (North Carolina State)
Position: SG | Size: 6’6″, 205 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Landry Shamet
Matt Able’s shooting is the draw, but he’s also operating with a notable sense of poise and intelligence. He’s taking smart escape dribbles into pull-ups, using fakes to open driving lanes and making smart passing reads.
Able has been more of a perimeter scoring specialist early, but the finishes he’s delivered show obvious touch that helps diminish concerns over his lack of strength and explosion.
19. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor)
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’5″, 215 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: USA/Benin
Pro Comp: Cam Whitmore
NBA teams will all buy Tounde Yessoufou’s strength, athleticism and motor for picking up easy baskets, defending and hustle plays.
He hasn’t shot well from outside, and the early attempts at self-creation have exposed his lack of polish as a scorer and decision-maker.
His physical traits and mentality point to a high floor. Yessoufou will have to show progress with his handle and shotmaking to sell NBA teams on a high ceiling.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves: Meleek Thomas (Arkansas)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’5″, 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jordan Clarkson
Meleek Thomas’ 26-point game against Winthrow highlighted his shotmaking, aggression and confidence as a scorer. That combination can result in potent offense.
He’d be move higher up boards if he was able to show teams more combo skills and playmaking, but NBA teams figure to see his creation, shooting diversity and slashing pop translating well to an instant offense role.
21. Charlotte Hornets (via Suns): Neoklis Avdalas (Virginia Tech)
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’9″, 215 lbs | Age: 19
Pro comp: Hedo Turkoglu
NBA teams were intrigued enough by Neoklis Avdalas last year to invite him to the combine out of Greece. In just his second game for Virginia Tech, he made a massive statement to scouts with 33 points, six assists and a number of clutch buckets late to beat Providence in overtime.
His scoring versatility and playmaking at 6’9″ will be obvious draws. Offense runs through his ability to create advantages with his size and handle. He’s demonstrated clear passing IQ early, and after shooting a respectable 35.7 percent from three last year overseas, he has shown notable shotmaking confidence so far with deep threes and dribble jumpers in the mid-range.
Continuing to shoot well should help ease any concerns over his limited explosion.
22. Miami Heat: Cameron Carr (Baylor)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 175 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Jordan Hawkins
After playing limited minutes as a freshman and sitting most of last year, Cameron Carr has quickly put himself back on the radar. His combination of shotmaking and explosive bounce creates a projectable off-ball scoring wing.
Though not tight or creative with his handle, Carr manages to get himself looks just by using his first step, long strides and serious elevation on his pull-ups, fallaways and three-ball.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Aday Mara (Michigan)
Position: C | Size: 7’3″, 255 lbs | Age: 20 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Roy Hibbert
Aday Mara’s skill level may stand out first for a 7’3″ big, but he’s putting up unique passing, shot-blocking and rebounding numbers as well.
NBA teams may not focus as much on the scoring—it’s his ability to facilitate from the post, earn second-chance points and protect the rim that will seem most translatable and valuable at the next level.
24. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Isaiah Evans (Duke)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 180 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: AJ Griffin
Isaiah Evans’ minutes are up this year, but his role hasn’t changed much. He continues to operate strictly as an off-ball scorer curling around screens and dribble handoffs into threes and drives.
His catch-and-shoot game and movement shooting should be seen as easy to fit for the next level. However, Evans is starting to look more like a specialist shotmaker than a high-level scoring prospect who’s going to create or play-make.
25. Toronto Raptors: Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 240 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Al Harrington
Though it’s been a relatively quiet start for Yaxel Lendeborg, his versatility remains the selling point, and it was on full display against TCU. He hit a three, attacked from the perimeter, used his gravity to set up teammates and blocked three shots.
At 6’9″, 240 pounds, he’s proficient in scoring and finishing plays from baseline to foul line. But it’s the improving shotmaking, regular assists and defensive playmaking that create the type of versatility that draws NBA attention.
Age will limit his draft-stock ceiling, but if he’s able to take another step forward as a shooter, enough teams will see a well-rounded pro rotational forward.
26. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Cayden Boozer (Duke)
Position: PG | Size: 6’4″, 205 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Tre Jones
Cayden Boozer’s numbers don’t jump off the page, and they might not all season. But it’s pretty obvious he has an advanced feel running offense and setting the table.
His unselfishness and IQ are easy to pick up on. There will be scouts who don’t see enough athleticism or scoring for a lead guard, but he should still earn fans for his ability to make the right reads and the game easier for teammates.
By season’s end, there should also be enough evidence of shotmaking, floaters and timely drives that suggest Boozer has more offense to offer than his current role or mindset allow him to consistently showcase.
27. Denver Nuggets: David Mirkovic (Illinois)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 255 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Luis Scola
Scouting departments figure to be split on David Mirkovic’s obvious skill level and feel versus his blatant lack of explosion.
Early on, he’s dominated low-level opponents and struggled against teams with more size and athleticism like Texas Tech and Alabama.
However, Mirkovic has been a three-point threat dating back to his years in the Adriatic League overseas. His handle and footwork are advanced for creating off the dribble, from the post or in iso shooting situations.
NBA interest will fade if he struggles to consistently execute during conference play, but Mirkovic has the type of clever maneuvering, instincts and shotmaking ability scouts may want to bet on outweighing the athletic and defensive issues.
28. Los Angeles Lakers: JT Toppin (Texas Tech)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 230 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Brandon Clarke
There were scouts with a first-round grade on JT Toppin last May. He’s now started his junior year with two 30-point games over his first three, overwhelming defenses with his one-two punch of strength and paint touch.
Even if it’s difficult to envision pathways to upside for a 6’9″ post player, there will be teams that see value and a high floor based on his consistent production, interior scoring instincts, unteachable short-range touch and offensive rebounding.
Despite underwhelming three-point and free-throw numbers, he did make 39.0 percent of his catch-and-shoot chances.
Moving up boards will be directly tied to Toppin’s development from three.
29. Detroit Pistons: Zuby Ejiofor (St. John’s)
Position: PF/C | Size: 6’9″, 245 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Montrezl Harrell
Zuby Ejiofor looks on track for another breakout after last year. Despite the loss to Alabama, his 27 points were eye-opening, with Ejiofor making five jumpers, including a pair of threes.
He’s out of the box positionally from an NBA standout, but his athleticism and motor at both ends may be strong enough for a play-finishing and defensive role.
Making another jump as a shooter should lead to a serious spike in NBA interest.
30. Washington Wizards (via OKC): Brayden Burries (Arizona)
Position: SG | Size: 6’4″, 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Quentin Grimes
It’s been a rough start for Brayden Burries. Shots aren’t falling, but he’s still getting himself good looks, and there is enough high school tape that suggests he’s eventually going to start converting more threes and drives.
From a scouting perspective, at 6’4″, 205 pounds, he has a strong mix of size, strength and touch for attacking and tossing in floaters. He does most of his damage at the rim or behind the arc, where he’s a confident shotmaker but still needs to become more consistent.
31. New York Knicks (via Wizards): Henri Veesaar (North Carolina)
Position: C | Size: 7’0″, 225 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: Estonia
Pro Comp: Isaiah Hartenstein
Henri Veesaar went for 20 points against Kansas, scoring off multiple highlight dunks and a pair of threes.
His size, strength and decisiveness cutting, rolling and crashing the glass should continue resulting in easy baskets. But it’s the shooting development and passing that can help separate him from other play-finishing 7-footers.
32. Boston Celtics (via Pelicans): Thomas Haugh (Florida)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’9″, 215 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Dean Wade
Thomas Haugh opened with a 27-point game against Arizona that mostly showcased his finishing athleticism and timing making plays from off the ball.
He flashed more versatility in Sunday’s win over Miami with three three-pointers and additional flashes of transition finishing and spot-up driving.
Haugh seems poised to earn the easy-fit, high-floor label that figures to be attractive in the 20s or 30s for teams interested in the stretch-4 archetype.
33. Memphis Grizzlies (via Pacers): Anthony Robinson II (Missouri)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’3″, 185 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Deuce McBride
On a short list of NCAA players to put up a 25.0 assist percentage, 5.0 steal percentage and a 60.0 true shooting percentage, Anthony Robinson II should have started the year on NBA watch lists.
He’s knocking down threes early with believable shooting mechanics. The defensive tape continues to roll as well, with Robinson looking capable of making a case for being one of the class’ top disruptors from point of attack.
His length, instincts and quickness to react should scouts buy the defensive numbers and film translating. Robinson looks like a three-and-D combo who can make plays as a pick-and-roll ball-handler.
34. Brooklyn Nets: Flory Bidunga (Kansas)
Position: SF | Size: 6’10”, 235 lbs | Age: 20 l Nationality: Congo
Pro Comp: Bismack Biyombo
Flory Bidunga’s athletic advantages really stood out against Cameron Boozer and Patrick Ngongba at Madison Square Garden. High-ranking executives from across the NBA watched Bidunga out-jump and out-maneuver Duke’s bigs for finishing around the rim. His footwork is looking sharp early, and it’s turned him into a more versatile interior scorer who can create more angles and opportunities for himself.
Defensive upside remains Bidunga’s primary selling point to NBA teams. But now he’s starting to look like a more nuanced finishing weapon and capable post scorer.
35. Sacramento Kings: Patrick Ngongba II (Duke)
Position: C | Size: 6’11”, 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jonas Valanciunas
Patrick Ngongba II pairs a physical inside presence with low-post and passing skills.
There’s nothing flashy about his game, nor is there any clear path to upside.
However, NBA teams could eventually see him as useful frontcourt depth, as the 6’11”, 250-pound big has a special feel for how to finish plays/drives and deliver assists as a playmaking big.
He has excellent hands and patience around the basket, though he looks more interesting when he’s facing up, attacking, taking methodical steps and converting driving layups.
Ngongba seemed to give positive minutes whenever he was on the floor last year, and a bigger role should be coming his way in 2025-26.
36. Sacramento Kings (via Hornets): Tahaad Pettiford (Auburn)
Position: PG | Size: 6’1″, 170 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Rob Dillingham
Tahaad Pettiford has started the season in a shooting slump, though it’s not the missed threes that will worry scouts. It seems inevitable he’ll eventually catch fire and regain confidence.
The poor start does underline the potential issues that come with being 6’1″, 170 pounds, as he’s struggled to finish in traffic, and his shot diet consists of lower-percentage dribble jumpers.
Regardless, NBA teams were likely to always view Pettiford as more of a bench spark than a starting lead guard. His burst, creativity and shotmaking will keep interest alive from teams that may have a need for backcourt or second-unit firepower.
37. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Mavericks): Juke Harris (Wake Forest)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 200lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Aaron Wiggins
Juke Harris has produced his way into the NBA draft conversation.
He has to sustain his current level of scoring and efficiency during conference play for scouts to fully buy in. At 6’7″, he’s been a serious transition weapon, a three-point threat and off-ball scorer driving, cutting and crashing the glass.
38. Los Angeles Clippers: Karter Knox (Arkansas)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 220 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Marcus Morris
Karter Knox projects as a complementary scorer with three-level shotmaking skills and defensive tools.
His role hasn’t increased much with Meleek Thomas, Darius Acuff Jr. and DJ Wagner all handling the ball. It’s worth questioning whether he’ll be able to maximize his draft stock this season playing almost exclusively as a spot-up scorer and cutter.
However, Knox does have promising shooting ability and an advantageous frame for attacking and finishing from off the ball.
39. San Antonio Spurs (via Jazz): Sergio de Larrea (Valencia)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 175 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Bogdan Bogdanovic
A 43.2 percent three-point shooter last year, Sergio de Larrea has already made 18 of his first 34 attempts this season.
He’s also averaging 3.1 assists in 15.8 minutes, showing obvious feel with his pacing and passing IQ setting teammates up in ball-screen situations.
De Larrea’s 6’5″ size, shotmaking and playmaking ability help create an easy projected fit to operate as a ball-handler or floor-spacing shotmaker.
40. Los Angeles Clippers (via Grizzlies): Dash Daniels (Melbourne)
Position: Combo guard | Size: 6’5″, 198 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Australia
Pro Comp: Dyson Daniels
Scouts figure to value the fact that Dash Daniels is giving Melbourne efficient minutes at 18 years old. He’s shot well from three on low volume early on, and he has a reliable float game that could serve him well in the NBA.
The lack of creativity and shotmaking firepower will just make it difficult for Daniels to secure widespread first-round interest.
41. San Antonio Spurs (via Blazers): Miles Byrd (San Diego State)
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’6″, 190 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Devin Carter
With NBA wing size, Miles Byrd’s shotmaking and defensive instincts create an attractive archetype.
He did grade as one of the worst finishers among draft prospects last year, having shot just 45.2 percent on layups.
The lack of strength and explosion raise concerns, but if he can become consistent from deep and continue to make plays in ball-screen situations, Byrd should look like a serviceable connector who has a special ability to make defensive reads/plays.
42. Brooklyn Nets (via Hawks): Darrion Williams (NC State)
Position: SF | Size: 6’6″, 225 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Kenrich Williams
Darrion Williams’ NC State debut showcased the type of versatility that could help scouts look past the lack of athleticism and unorthodox body type for a wing. A 225-pound forward who can give you four threes and eight assists can look enticing.
He has a chance at the next level as a connector who can knock down shots, add high-IQ passing and use his frame to play physical.
43. Charlotte Hornets (via Warriors): Alex Condon (Florida, C)
Size: 6’11”, 230 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: Australia
Pro Comp: Meyers Leonard
Alex Condon generated first-round buzz this past year with his athletic finishing, defensive activity, passing and three-point range.
The path to upside for Condon is tied directly to his shooting development. Mostly a finisher and cleanup man offensively, he hit his first two threes against Miami en route to a 19-point game.
NBA teams will still show some degree of interest in a 6’11” big that runs the floor, scores around the paint and adds some value as a passer. But he’ll differentiate himself from dozens of NBA backups by becoming a more consistent pick-and-pop center.
44. Atlanta Hawks (via Celtics): Christian Anderson (Texas Tech)
Position: PG | Size: 6’3″, 178 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: USA/Germany
Pro Comp: Trey Burke
JT Toppin and LeJuan Watts being out for Texas Tech’s opener gave Christian Anderson a green light. He capitalized with 34 points and 11 assists, validating numbers after he averaged 16.9 points and 6.6 assists for Germany at the U19 World Cup.
Anderson knows how to get to his spots, and he’s a threat from most of them based on his pull-up game and range. Appearing ultra-decisive to start the season, scouts may see a different level creator and playmaker who controls the pace.
A big jump in scoring and playmaking after the summer will sway scouts to look past his underwhelming size and athletic abilities.
45. Orlando Magic: Alvaro Folgueiras (Iowa)
Position: PF | Size: 6’10”, 230 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Jake LaRavia
At 6’10”, Alvaro Folguierias is a fluid shooter who can handle the ball and make athletic plays around the rim, a combination that creates appealing scoring versatility from the power forward spot.
Potential lottery pick Bennett Stirtz should help put him in a good position to consistently earn quality looks.
46. Washington Wizards (via Bulls) Andrej Stojakovic
Position: SG/SF | Size: 6’7″ 205 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Rui Hachimura
Scouts have started warming up to Andrej Stojakovic after he shot 11-of-16 from the floor against both Texas Tech and Alabama. Despite missing threes and defenses knowing the scouting report, he’s having consistent success scoring inside the arc, isolating or attack off ball screens.
Though not explosive, he’s sharp with his footwork and agility, which helps him get to spots. Scouts will still want to see more three-point shooting, particularly for a third-year player who isn’t going to offer playmaking, athleticism or defensive upside.
It sounds like he could have patient NBA suitors willing to bet on his range, given his two-point shotmaking ability and family genes.
47. Houston Rockets (via 76ers): Amael L’Etang (Dayton)
Position: C | Size: 7’1″, 230 lbs | Age: 21 | Country: France
Pro Comp: Maxime Raynaud
Amael L’Etang popped last year in a limited role at 7’1″ with fluid shooting, athletic/coordinated finishing and smart passes. It’s all translating with more minutes and usage at Dayton.
The sample size remains small so he’ll need to continue to execute with consistency, but L’Etang’s potential to stretch the floor, play in pick-and-rolls/pops and score around the rim should draw the NBA’s attention.
48. Washington Wizards (via Knicks): Paul McNeil Jr. (NC State)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 190 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: JR Smith
Scouts could start to picture Paul McNeil Jr. as an NBA shotmaking weapon. He was averaging 20.3 points through threes games, mostly by drilling catch-and-shoot, movement and transition threes with convincing confidence.
He has some self-creation skill getting into his jumpers as well.
McNeil just isn’t used in ball-screen or isolation situations, so right now he projects as a specialist for off-ball perimeter firepower.
49. Boston Celtics: Milos Uzan (Houston)
Position: PG/SG | Size: 6’4″, 195 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Andrew Nembhard
Discussed as a second-round pick last June, Milos Uzan chose to return for another potential Final Four run and jump up draft boards.
He was one of the nation’s premier pick-and-roll ball-handlers with an excellent assist-to-turnover ratio and tough combination of pull-up shooting and floater touch. He also shot 45.6 percent off the catch, showing he can play some 2-guard with 6’4″ size.
He’s not explosive around the basket, and he’ll be 23 years old by the draft, details that will probably keep Uzan from climbing too high.
50. New York Knicks (via Timberwolves): Ryan Conwell (Louisville)
Position: SG | Size: 6’4″, 215 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Ochai Agbaji
Scoring guards around 6’4″ don’t have much margin for error in the NBA if they’re not also playmakers. But Ryan Conwell possesses such impressive off-ball shotmaking that he could have a chance.
He shot 46.4 percent on spot-ups, 44.2 percent off screens, 46.3 percent on handoff threes and 41.5 percent on transition threes.
Conwell can be a threat to get downhill or into his pull-up out of isolation or pick-and-roll sets, but his ticket to the pros will be that plug-and-play scoring/shooting.
51. San Antonio Spurs (via Heat): Donnie Freeman (Syracuse)
Position: PF | Size: 6’9″, 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Jonathan Isaac
Donnie Freeman is back and healthy after only lasting 15 games last season. He should earn NBA fans if he’s able to hit threes at a sufficient clip, given the built-in appeal of a 6’9″ forward with his wing-like agility, two-point shotmaking and defensive tools.
Though he appeared raw too often last year, patient NBA teams should be drawn to his archetype and potential two-way versatility.
52. Washington Wizards (via Pistons): Alex Karaban (Connecticut)
Position: SF/PF | Size: 6’8″, 230 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Sam Hauser
There’s always been interest in Alex Karaban. There just hasn’t been overwhelming love after he’s shown minimal improvement from year to year.
Still, there will be teams drafting in the second round that see a value pick who can provide plug-and-play shotmaking, finishing efficiency, some defensive toughness and the professionalism to make it without standout athletic talent.
His track record and comfort level for scoring off the ball should help teams see a fit with the 6’8″ forward.
There won’t be any mystery around Karaban’s NBA role—he’ll play the same one Sam Hauser does, providing shooting and intangibles.
53. Cleveland Cavaliers: Wesley Yates III (Washington)
Position: SG | Size: 6’4″, 219 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Collin Sexton
Wesley Yates III looked like a pro shotmaker against Washington State when he poured in 26 points on Friday. Though he doesn’t provide any playmaking value, at 6’4″, 219 pounds with the ability to spot up, drill pull-ups and attack with force, scouts have been pictured a three-level scorer who’ll warrant second-round consideration.
54. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Spurs): Donovan Dent (UCLA)
Position: PG | Size: 6’2″, 185 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Ish Smith
Donovan Dent didn’t quite capitalize on an early opportunity against Arizona on Saturday, making some questionable reads that resulted in too many contested shots.
His lack of size and athleticism showed and reminded scouts that Dent relies on needing to convert tough touch shots. However, he also happens to have one of the NCAA’s best float games, and his handle, creativity and playmaking IQ have always felt advanced and translatable.
Perimeter shooting will continue to appear as a swing skill for a 6’2″ guard.
55. Toronto Raptors: Moustapha Thiam (Cincinnati)
Position: C | Size: 7’2″, 250 lbs | Age: 19 | Country: USA/Congo
Pro Comp: Chris Boucher
Moustapha Thiam was worth tracking last year for his shot-blocking rate (9.1 percent) and shooting flashes for a 7’2″ freshman.
He’ll need to look tougher around the basket at Cincinnati and show some more growth and consistency with his range to really sell NBA scouts.
But a rim protector with his NBA tools and shotmaking skills is poised to enter the draft discussion at some point.
56. Houston Rockets: Richie Saunders (BYU)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 200 lbs | Age: 24
Pro Comp: Ben Sheppard
Shotmaking will be Richie Saunders’ moneymaker at the next level. But he’s shown scouts that he can also create opportunities for himself with his handle and decisive drives out of spot-ups. And despite not being an exciting athlete, he shows plenty of toughness fighting for baskets in crowds or after contact.
57. Toronto Raptors (via Lakers): Tomislav Ivisic (Illinois)
Position: C | Size: 7’1″, 255 lbs | Age: 22 | Country: Croatia
Pro Comp: Killian Tillie
A knee injury will now cost Tomislav Ivisic extended time. Still, with a 7’1″, 230-pound frame, shooting range and soft hands, he’s still one of the nation’s most effective pick-and-roll/pop players.
Aside from hitting 55 threes last year, which has become his big selling point, he showed high passing IQ and toughness around the rim for finishing and rebounding.
His defensive outlook isn’t exciting, but there figure to be NBA teams that see an opportunity to find another version of Quinten Post.
58. Phoenix Suns (via Nuggets): Elyjah Freeman (Auburn)
Position: SF | Size: 6’8″, 185lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Olivier-Maxence Prosper
Poised for a significant role at Auburn after standing out in Division II, Elyjah Freeman possesses the type of positional size, athleticism, shotmaking and energy that will warrant NBA scouts’ attention.
Coming from Lincoln Memorial, there has been a lot of anticipation for his NCAA debut, with scouts curious how he’ll look at a different level. He passed the eye test in preseason.
Freeman dominated more last year with open-floor play and attacking. Enough promising signs of shooting development and process could turn him into a coveted 2026 prospect.
59. New York Knicks (via Pistons): Braden Smith (Purdue)
Position: PG | Size: 6’0″, 170 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Dennis Schröder
Size and age will continue to cap Braden Smith’s perceived NBA ceiling and draft stock.
In the second round, though, he’s bound to have fans who see a playmaking specialist with enough shotmaking skill and toughness to overcome his physical limitations in a backup role.
A pesky guard who’s turned into an exceptional playmaker and shotmaker, Smith could provide the same type of jolt that makes Dennis Schröder in demand each year.
60. Washington Wizards (via OKC): Jaron Pierre Jr. (SMU)
Position: SG | Size: 6’5″, 210 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Kevin Porter Jr.
Jaron Pierre Jr. exploded for 21.6 points per game last year, mostly behind some potent shotmaking.
His scoring attack looks similar at SMU, though point guard Boopie Miller has eliminated Pierre’s ability to showcase any playmaking.
Pierre will turn 24 just after next year’s draft, but he should produce his way to the NBA combine after receiving an invite to 2025’s Elite Camp.
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Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.
Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.