2026 NBA Mock Draft V.3
The No Ceilings crew puts together their third NBA Mock Draft of the 2026 NBA Draft cycle.
You all know what time it is.
The calendar has flipped over to 2026, as the top players in college basketball face down their conference schedules on the road to March Madness. Meanwhile, some NBA fans are turning increasingly toward the draft as most NBA teams reach the halfway point in their seasons with some clarity about their place in the playoff picture.
For us here at No Ceilings, though, it’s draft time, just like usual. The start of each new month of the season means another Mock Draft from the No Ceilings team.
For those of you who are new to the No Ceilings Mock Draft experience, our No Ceilings crew gathers behind the scenes to go through all 60 picks. The team discusses each and every pick, trying to best match player and team. We also provide write-ups for all 30 picks in the first round.
For those of you who are part of the No Ceilings + crew, we will release the video of the Mock Draft later today to get all of the details of our decisions. For now, though, it’s time to get another Mock Draft on the record.
***Draft Order BELOW is of NBA Standings from 1/11/26***
Enjoy, No Ceilings family!
#1. INDIANA PACERS — Darryn Peterson | G | Kansas
Profile: 6’6”, 205
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
21.8 PTS | 4.8 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.9 BLK
46.7 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 88.4 FT%
Metcalf: This season has been a nightmare for the Pacers after coming off an NBA Finals appearance, but walking away with one of the best guard prospects of the century is a heck of a consolation prize. Darryn Peterson’s infusion of shot creation, athleticism, defensive upside, and secondary creation is exactly what you’d hope for from a shooting guard next to Tyrese Haliburton. Their ability to stretch the floor, make quick decisions, and play with pace would immediately make them one of the most fun offenses in the league. We did consider AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer here as well, but the majority opinion is still that Peterson’s current talent and upside are too much to pass on at the top spot. The Pacers would have one of the most exciting backcourts in the league for the next ten years, and it’s tough to imagine that Rick Carlisle wouldn’t get the very best out of Peterson.
#2. SACRAMENTO KINGS — AJ Dybantsa | F | BYU
Profile: 6’9”, 210
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
22.9 PTS | 7.1 REB | 3.9 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.5 BLK
58.1 FG% | 32.6 3P% | 74.6 FT%
Nick: The No Ceilings crew got into a lengthy discussion here about the difficult but fantastic theoretical choice facing the Sacramento Kings here with the #2 pick in this exercise. Ultimately, the team ended up going with BYU star AJ Dybantsa, in no small part due to him having arguably the highest upside in the class. Dybantsa would form a fascinating forward pairing with Keegan Murray, and Murray’s continued rise as a top-tier defender would both give Dybantsa room to explore the offensive studio space while also helping Dybantsa to learn how to take advantage of his spectacular athletic tools to become a serious defensive menace.
#3. ATLANTA HAWKS (via NOLA) — Cameron Boozer | F | Duke
Profile: 6’9”, 250
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
22.9 PTS | 9.5 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.7 BLK
57.9 FG% | 38.1 3P% | 77.5 FT%
Stephen: I’m not sure how many times we use the whole “taking so-and-so isn’t a bad consolation prize” with the #3 pick in the draft, but let’s do that here with Cameron Boozer. Cam doesn’t offer the sexy highlight reels that some of the other top prospects in this class do, but all he does is win. If you’re concerned with how he will be able to take a team of players that aren’t as good as the other teams he’ll play against in the NBA, look at this Duke team. Boozer serves as the de facto point guard, and has an Assist Percentage of 26.6! That’s with an Assist-to-Turnover Ratio of 1.8! As a big!
#4. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Caleb Wilson | F | North Carolina
Profile: 6’10”, 215
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
19.5 PTS | 11.0 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.4 BLK
57.3 FG% | 25.0 3P% | 69.8 FT%
Jam: After holding a 14% chance for the first pick and a 52.1% chance of landing a Top 4 pick in last year’s draft, Washington was dealt a tough blow and fell to the sixth spot. Still, the franchise appears to have landed a foundational piece in Tre Johnson. This could be a bit of déjà vu, with the basketball gods not blessing them in terms of their draft position, but the organization still ends up with a foundational player.
In Caleb Wilson, Washington selects not only a foundational player, but a potential perennial two-way All-Star with superstar upside and a chip on his shoulder. Wilson’s ridiculous marriage of physical tools and motor gives him a high floor as a play finisher on offense and a switchable disruptor on the defensive end. His evolving ball skills, tough shotmaking, and passing feel represent an exciting offensive foundation to believe in. The fit alongside Alex Sarr provides the Wizards with an incredible two-way 4-5 combination in the frontcourt that could terrorize the NBA for the next decade while shaping a Washington defensive identity that’s built for the present and future, either with or without newly acquired star Trae Young.
#5. BROOKLYN NETS — Kingston Flemings | G | Houston
Profile: 6’4”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.4 PTS | 3.4 REB | 5.2 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
51.6 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 79.6 FT%
Paige: I know what you all are probably thinking…another guard, really? The answer is that Flemings is the highest upside and available player at fifth overall, and it just so happens this is where the Nets are picking. However, I actually really love this pairing of Flemings and Egor Demin for Brooklyn’s future. Add in Flemings’s athleticism, defensive tenacity, high IQ pace/reads, and three-level scoring ability, and he’s the kind of two-way, gritty, competitive, and explosive player who can be the foundation for the Nets to take the franchise from a rebuild to a rebirth.
#6. UTAH JAZZ — Jayden Quaintance | C | Kentucky
Profile: 6’10”, 255
Year: Sophomore (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
5.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.8 BLK
57.1 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 30.8 FT%
Corey: With the Utah Jazz ranking last in the NBA in defensive rating, they select a player whose impact on that end will be felt in a major way by taking Kentucky’s Jayden Quaintance. Though his offensive game has significant flaws (career 53% TS% as a big), Quaintance is a defensive monster (career 9.4% BLK%, 2.1% STL%) whose rumored 7’5” wingspan, elite mobility, and explosive leaping ability make him a scheme-versatile menace. JQ can protect the rim with both hands, aggressively hedge on guards and recover, and use his “go-go gadget arms” to disrupt passing lanes and strip his man on the ball. Though a sophomore, Quaintance will be just 18 years old on draft night. He has the potential to be a foundational defensive talent, an All-NBA caliber defender, and someone who could immediately bolster the league’s most porous defensive unit.
#7. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mikel Brown Jr. | G | Louisville
Profile: 6’5”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
16.6 PTS | 3.0 REB | 5.1 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
38.1 FG% | 26.8 3P% | 83.8 FT%
Rucker: The Dallas Mavericks struck gold when they landed Cooper Flagg last year. With the Mavericks continuing to rebuild, this draft is another big opportunity to add some serious firepower for the foreseeable future. If a team is looking for a potential floor general to groom, this is the class to get it. It’s a DEEP class when it comes to the point guard position, and there’s plenty to pick from when it comes to what “flavor” you might want out of your lead guard. Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. has been sidelined with a nagging back injury but is reportedly nearing a return to the court. When Brown is at full strength, he’s a dangerous floor-spacing asset with sensational quickness and playmaking vision. Adding him to the mix alongside Cooper Flagg would give the Mavericks a serious duo with tremendous upside for years to come.
#8. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Darius Acuff Jr. | G | Arkansas
Profile: 6’3”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
19.9 PTS | 2.8 REB | 5.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.4 BLK
48.7 FG% | 42.5 3P% | 78.7 FT%
Stephen: There is so much to be said about a team that just takes players who they believe are good and who can contribute to their programs. Darius Acuff Jr. is such a player who can come in and contribute to Charlotte in meaningful ways. Many assumed that Acuff would come into this season more as a score-first point guard who would really need to work on his shooting and playmaking. However, the five-time SEC Freshman of the Week has an Assist Percentage of 32.9%—which ranks 31st in ALL of college basketball among players who have a Minutes Percentage of at least 70. That also ranks fifth among all freshmen. He is also shooting just under 43% from three on nine attempts per 100 possessions. Darius is a savvy scorer who can create his own shots–with and without screens. He also boasts a Block Percentage of 1.4, which shows a level of defensive capability that teams won’t get from other guard prospects.
Of course, there has to be some sort of consideration regarding LaMelo Ball’s long-term future with the Hornets, but that doesn’t inhibit Acuff from being a contributor on this team. Even if Ball stays, you can almost bet that he will miss 30ish games at a minimum. Darius would allow the Hornets to have another guard who can get players open. With Ball, you have great guard depth–with the ability to be able to pivot away from LaMelo should the need arise.
#9. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Keaton Wagler | G | Illinois
Profile: 6’6”, 180
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.7 PTS | 5.2 REB | 3.8 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
46.2 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 83.1 FT%
Corey: With the first selection from their never-ending treasure trove of assets, the Oklahoma City Thunder roll with Illinois breakout freshman Keaton Wagler, a smooth and cerebral wing whose offensive scoring polish and playmaking fit seamlessly into their DPS ecosystem. While not a dynamic athlete, Wagler’s crafty, funky pace allows him to create for himself and others, boasting an efficient 63.3 TS%, a 41.3 3PT%, and a savvy 2.5 AST/TOV ratio. Wagler provides the Thunder with another high-feel, versatile offensive connector with size, who can immediately space the floor and facilitate while complementing their star trio.
#10. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Yaxel Lendeborg | F | Michigan
Profile: 6’9”, 240
Year: Senior (23)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.7 PTS | 6.9 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.4 BLK
54.5 FG% | 35.4 3P% | 86.4 FT%
Paige: This past week, the Memphis Grizzlies announced that they are, for the first time, entertaining offers to trade Ja Morant. This was a long time coming, with the city of Memphis seemingly at a standstill in terms of having an NBA team with any positive direction. Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Cedric Coward have provided some stability for the future, but adding in Michigan’s 6’9”, 240-pound dribble, pass, shoot versatile forward Yaxel Lendeborg would give them a stable and reliable piece to the puzzle—not to mention that Yax is a leader on the court and has led Michigan to one of their best starts to a season in program history in only his first year with the Wolverines. In short, you know what you’re getting with Yax, and he can impact the game in so many ways that contribute to winning basketball—which is what the Grizzlies need.
#11. MILWAUKEE BUCKS — Koa Peat | F | Arizona
Profile: 6’8”, 235
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.8 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.7 BLK
56.5 FG% | 23.1 3P% | 63.2 FT%
Rucker: Plenty will be keeping an eye on the Milwaukee Bucks as the NBA Trade Deadline nears. While Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be the “elephant in the room” around the deadline, the realization is that this Milwaukee Bucks roster is starving for talent. The Bucks look to have struck gold with finding Ryan Rollins. But besides that, this Bucks roster needs to find some young talent to move forward with. While Milwaukee could look to get some additional backcourt depth, they could look to add another piece with great upside. Insert Arizona freshman forward Koa Peat. A tremendous pre-college resume, backed with youth and outstanding intangibles, Peat has been a winning player at every stop of his basketball background. He’s a bruiser inside who plays with great feel, and unlocking the outside shot would send his potential into another galaxy.
#12. CHICAGO BULLS — Braylon Mullins | G | UConn
Profile: 6’6”, 196
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
11.7 PTS | 3.7 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.5 BLK
48.2 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 81.8 FT%
Stephen: Braylon Mullins is a great get for any team, regardless of their immediate aspirations. If you want to win, he makes the lives of your stars a lot easier. If you have a roster full of players that you need to figure out, his floor spacing makes their lives easier as well. The Chicago Bulls want to play with pace and create easy shots. Their team is okay at shooting from deep–especially from their core players. Braylon fits into that identity, as he is a 39% three-point shooter who shoots more than 13 attempts per 100 possessions. But he can do so much more than simply shoot.
Mullins is a snappy decision-maker, and he has worked to show more and more of that while working his way back from an off-season injury. He’s also demonstrated some very sound defensive ability. His 2.6 Steals Percentage has risen week over week. He’s shown the ability to compete on the glass and to play with pace. His relocation ability would work well playing alongside a jumbo playmaker like Josh Giddey. As Mullins continues to show good production in Coach Hurley’s system, he could continue to rise in this 2026 NBA Draft Class.
#13. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Amari Allen | F | Alabama
Profile: 6’8”, 205
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
11.7 PTS | 7.8 REB | 3.4 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.0 BLK
45.8 FG% | 37.1 3P% | 74.6 FT%
Metcalf: It’s safe to say that the San Antonio Spurs are pretty set at the guard and center positions. Their wing depth and versatility could still use some work, though, even if some guys are having a great year. Amari Allen would fit right in from a stylistic and upside standpoint. Allen has been one of the most surprising freshmen this season with his passing, defense, shooting, and rebounding. He’s one of these Swiss Army knife-type wings; he has great feel, and he does a bit of everything. Gauging the upside for Allen is tough, as he’s sort of come out of nowhere from a draft perspective. At a minimum, though, Allen’s ability to fill in the gaps of a rotation while still having a ton of potential is very exciting for this Spurs team that already looks ready to win.
#14. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Hannes Steinbach | F | Washington
Profile: 6’11”, 220
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
18.4 PTS | 11.0 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.8 BLK
58.0 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 77.3 FT%
Nick: The Portland Trail Blazers close out the lottery here by filling out their arsenal of young big men with a star center from just across the state line. Washington’s Hannes Steinbach has been on an absolute tear since his head-turning performance for Germany in the recent FIBA U19 World Cup, and he has extended that dominance in his NCAA play. While his three-point percentage has fallen off a bit in recent weeks, he is still absolutely mauling opponents on the glass on both ends while shooting 62.0% on his two-pointers and getting to the free-throw line almost six times a game. His plus interior passing and his ability to play alongside other big men at Washington make it easier to imagine him fitting in with Portland’s stable of young bigs, and having Donovan Clingan waiting on the back line will certainly help make up for Steinbach’s relative lack of shot-blocking.
#15. MIAMI HEAT — Labaron Philon | G | Alabama
Profile: 6’4”, 185
Year: Sophomore (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
21.9 PTS | 3.4 REB | 4.9 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.3 BLK
54.3 FG% | 37.6 3P% | 76.1 FT%
Jam: Philon’s competitive fire and two-way play would bring another viable impact guard to Miami. There are understandably still some skeptics about Philon’s three-point shooting jump on more volume (31.5% on 3.4 3PA to 36.3% on 5.3 3PA), but the production and confidence are undeniable. Whether or not you believe “Heat Culture” is overrated, Miami has consistently developed players and helped them max out their potential. Philon checks many of the boxes that Miami covets and could be an ideal fit, especially without Rozier and potentially Tyler Herro, who seems to always be mentioned in trade scenarios involving the Heat.
#16. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Cameron Carr | G | Baylor
Profile: 6’5”, 175
Year: Sophomore (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
20.5 PTS | 5.3 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.7 BLK
54.5 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 76.0 FT%
Stephen: The Memphis Grizzlies are in a position where they are fielding offers for Ja Morant. Does that mean they should target Ja’s replacement here with the 16th pick in a class that figures to be deep at his position? Maybe, but that’s without even knowing who the Grizz will even get back in a deal. That said, Memphis is going to do something here that they’ve already told us they like doing, and that’s get a wing player with a crazy wingspan. Enter Cam Carr.
Cam Carr isn’t a stranger to Tennessee, having played for the Volunteers his first two seasons in college–albeit sparingly. This year at Baylor, Carr has shown a unique skill set. He has proven to be one of the best, tough shot makers in all of college basketball, ranking in the 97th percentile in guarded jumpers, hitting on 50% of his contested threes. Defensively, Carr shows immense bounce, and he has recorded a Block Percentage of 5! That’s higher than Nate Ament, Tounde Yessoufou, and Koa Peat. Though listed at 6’5”, Cameron has a wingspan of 7’2”! This is very much in line with what Memphis has shown to value in their recent draft history.
#17. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Aday Mara | C | Michigan
Profile: 7’3”, 255
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
10.1 PTS | 7.9 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.5 BLK
65.6 FG% | 0 3P% | 41.9 FT%
Corey: Still seemingly caught between two timelines, the Warriors make a move to address a glaring need by selecting Michigan center Aday Mara. Once a potential Top 5 prospect whose hype dimmed after an underwhelming two years at UCLA, the 7’3” Mara has re-emerged as one of college basketball’s most impactful players. He’s a premier rim protector, pairing his massive frame with intriguing scoring, and—most enticingly for Golden State—crafty passing ability that fits seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s offensive philosophy. With Quentin Post as their only player listed above 6’9”, Mara injects genuine size and defensive anchor potential into a roster severely lacking it.
#18. ATLANTA HAWKS (via CLE) — Bennett Stirtz | G | Iowa
Profile: 6’4”, 190
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.6 PTS | 2.4 REB | 5.1 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.1 BLK
48.2 FG% | 39.4 3P% | 81.9 FT%
Stephen: Stirtz has had an interesting season, coming into this cycle with some degree of expectation. In his first season playing for a high-major program in Iowa, Bennett’s counting numbers have taken an ever-so-slight step backward. What’s been encouraging is that his efficiency has been roughly the same. To phrase it nicely, Stirtz is doing a lot for the Hawkeyes, and he does get the brunt of the attention in the scouting report. Considering that intensity in competition in conjunction with the level of defensive attention he commands, Stirtz has still been stellar.
With Trae Young being traded, the Hawks don’t have to go with another Point Guard in the draft, but adding Stirtz does give the team floor spacing (39% on 10.3 attempts per 100 possessions), as well as some playmaking (27.1 Assist Percentage). He does well in the paint, as he ranked in the 57th percentile scoring at the rim, which gives him some offensive balance. The Hawks will be able to add a player who gives some of what you’re losing in Trae, but at a fraction of the cost and role dedication.
#19. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via PHI) — Thomas Haugh | F | Florida
Profile: 6’9”, 215
Year: Junior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.4 PTS | 6.6 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.8 BLK
47.8 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 75.0 FT%
Stephen: There really isn’t a “wrong” answer here for the Oklahoma City Thunder at this point, considering that they have added Keaton Wagler to an already impressive roster. One of the main points that has come up regarding how their team matches up with the San Antonio Spurs is size. Thomas Haugh is no Victor Wembanyama, but he is able to provide this team with some size at the four, along with a more modern skill set than they currently have on their roster.
One of the bigger concerns with Haugh was whether or not he could play the Small Forward spot for the Florida Gators this season. Not only has he played there, but he has been much better than expected. He’s shown to be a very good driver from the perimeter, which helps him project to be a floor-spacing four much more clearly. He’s not a lights-out shooter, but he has shown improvement and will likely be someone teams will need to pay attention to. Where he really gives the Thunder value is in his hustle, rebounding, and defense–not too dissimilar to what they saw in Brooks Barnhizer, but with much more upside.
#20. TORONTO RAPTORS — Karim Lopez | F | NZ Breakers
Profile: 6’8”, 220
Year: 2007 Born (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
10.6 PTS | 5.6 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.0 BLK
49.3 FG% | 32.5 3P% | 75.0 FT%
Nick: After a bit of a wobble in early December, the Toronto Raptors appear to have righted the ship; the team sitting as the fourth seed in the East halfway through their season makes it seem like they are now here to stay. Still, even with them being one of the most pleasant surprises of the young season, the Raptors are still lacking in terms of positional size—and size overall, with Jakob Poeltl as the only player above 6’9” on the roster. Enter star forward Karim Lopez, the top international prospect in the class, who has been plying his craft in the NBL for the New Zealand Breakers for his second straight season. Lopez’s three-point percentage has fallen off in recent weeks, but the 6’8” forward still has a wide variety of tools on both ends of the floor. Lopez has also taken a significant step forward in terms of his finishing around the basket this year, which elevates the rest of his complementary skill set.
#21. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via PHX) — Morez Johnson Jr. F/C | Michigan
Profile: 6’9”, 250
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.2 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.3 BLK
68.9 FG% | 44.4 3P% | 80.4 FT%
Metcalf: Continuing to bolster the front court makes a lot of sense for the Hornets, but this isn’t exclusively a “fit” pick. Every time Morez Johnson steps on the floor, he makes an impact. He’s someone who makes all the hustle plays and does the dirty work that stars don’t want to do, but that winning teams have to have done. He simply makes life easier for everyone on the court. On top of that, he’s an incredibly efficient interior finisher, tenacious rebounder, and versatile defender. It’s pretty rare to see guys his size sit down in a defensive stance and switch nearly everything on the perimeter. His biggest question mark is his offensive creation, but we’re already seeing him improve a ton as a passer, finisher, and shooter this season. Whether it was with Illinois last season, Team USA this summer, or Michigan this season, Johnson contributes to winning.
#22. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via HOU) — Nate Ament | F | Tennessee
Profile: 6’10”, 207
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.9 PTS | 6.4 REB | 2.5 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.3 BLK
40.3 FG% | 28.8 3P% | 74.8 FT%
Jam: Ament in OKC is a fantastic draft match, and getting him at #23 would be a tremendous value. His shoot-pass-dribble toolkit at 6’10” still has plenty of intrigue, but he’s proving to be a bit more of a project than expected at both his ceiling and floor. We haven’t seen the consistent three-point shooting, defensive playmaking, and confidence from his grassroots tape. It’s been more so sprinkled in throughout a solid freshman season, but not the spectacular Top 5 prospect-worthy season that most expected so far.
OKC is in a position where they can afford to be patient with Ament, which likely means a real, thoughtful development plan with time in the G-League where he can hone his skillset and confidence while furthering the excellent mature muscle gains he’s already seeing. After already selecting Wagler and Haugh, adding Ament would complete an outstanding first round draft haul.
#23. NEW YORK KNICKS — Patrick Ngongba II | F/C | Duke
Profile: 6’11”, 250
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
10.9 PTS | 6.3 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.4 BLK
63.9 FG% | 26.3 3P% | 66.7 FT%
Paige: Duke’s 6’11” 250-pound sophomore center has one of the safest floors and highest ceilings in this draft class. His feel, absurd finishing at the rim numbers, rim protection, motor, and youth would be an exciting big man addition for the Knicks. He also has a 7’4” wingspan and great hands, making him a great target for Jalen Brunson to feed him in the post and toss lobs to him. Ngongba represents another upside offensive addition for the Knicks as they look to be a consistent championship contender for years to come. He has had his fair share of foot injuries over the years, which is concerning, given that he is only 19 years old and has not played an NBA game yet (as we know how foot injuries have been a cause for concern for some of the best big men in the league recently). However, Ngongba has continued to make strides a playmaker this season, which ticks more boxes when it terms to his role in the NBA. The Knicks have really struggled recently without Josh Hart in the lineup due to the defensive versatility and possession impact and completeness he brings to the Knicks. Adding in a young 6’11” rim protector, clean-up finisher, defensive workhorse, and offensive upside swing in Ngongba just gives the Knicks another two-way threat.
#24. BOSTON CELTICS — Tounde Yessoufou | G | Baylor
Profile: 6’5”, 215
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.9 PTS | 5.9 REB | 1.9 AST | 2.2 STL | 0.8 BLK
49.8 FG% | 29.9 3P% | 78.3 FT%
Rucker: The Boston Celtics have been one of the biggest surprises this year in the NBA. Boston continues to find itself near the top of the Eastern Conference, surpassing many expectations this year with superstar forward Jayson Tatum out. The Celtics will continue to look to find some “cheap” contributors in the 2026 NBA Draft, and there are a number of routes they could go. There will be a desire to look at the big man position, but the Celtics have always done a great job of allowing the board to play out. With an offensive talent like Baylor’s Tounde Yessoufou still on the board, it’d be hard to pass up for the Celtics. Yessoufou has an NBA-ready frame and knows how to put the ball in the basket. After finding tremendous value last year with the addition of Hugo Gonzalez, the Celtics land another talented wing to develop for the future.
#25. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Chris Cenac Jr. | F/C | Houston
Profile: 6’11”, 240
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
9.1 PTS | 7.6 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.5 BLK
48.8 FG% | 38.2 3P% | 61.5 FT%
Corey: Finding a potential steal slipping down the board, the Lakers swing on Houston freshman big man Chris Cenac, a former projected lottery talent whose blend of size and skill could offer them immense value. The 6’11” big with a reported 7’3” wingspan possesses intriguing offensive versatility, showcasing soft shooting touch from outside (40% on 5 3PT/100) as well as the midpost. While his freshman season has been full of inconsistency, Cenac’s defensive tools and mobility provide a theoretical switchable defender with rim protection potential, giving the Lakers a high-upside developmental big to mold behind their established core.
#26. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES — Brayden Burries | G | Arizona
Profile: 6’4”, 205
Year: Freshman (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.6 PTS | 4.3 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
50.3 FG% | 35.2 3P% | 72.0 FT%
Metcalf: It’s no secret that the Timberwolves need guard help, and Brayden Burries could be the answer to those problems. If Burries keeps playing like this, he may not even be available at this spot. However, his versatility and ability to play on or off the ball would fit effortlessly into their rotation. A rookie point guard isn’t going to stroll in and take the ball out of the hands of their established creators. Being able to spot up, create on the second side, and run the offense with the second unit, though, is what would allow Burries to get on the floor. What really stands out with his game right now is his strength and physicality. Burries doesn’t shy away from contact and has the strength to impose his will on both ends. That would be a refreshing change of pace from Minnesota’s current guard situation. Burries is a streaky shooter, but his ability to impact the game in myriad ways is Ajay Mitchell-esque.
#27. DENVER NUGGETS — Christian Anderson | G | Texas Tech
Profile: 6’3”, 188
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
19.3 PTS | 3.6 REB | 7.2 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
48.4 FG% | 42.0 3P% | 75.0 FT%
Stephen: The Nuggets are in a place where they arguably have the best player in the world in Nikola Jokic, and Jamal Murray has been playing at an All-Star level. Their core piece seems to still be playing at a high level, and they have even found some value in some of their rotation players. Going with the best player available–even at this point of the draft–may be met with some questions, but Christian Anderson fits that bill—and he also fits Denver. Anderson spaces the floor, which helps defenses from crowding Jokic, and offers lanes for Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Aaron Gordon. In his own right, Anderson is a very good passer, and he would give Denver more options to help captain second units. Denver still has championship aspirations, and they have been at their best with reliable bench units. Anderson gives them more flexibility in their backcourt and, if everything goes according to plan, can even step in and be a starter.
#28. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via SAS) — Henri Veesaar | F/C | North Carolina
Profile: 7’0”, 225
Year: Junior (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
16.9 PTS | 9.2 REB | 2.1 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.1 BLK
64.8 FG% | 51.2 3P% | 67.2 FT%
Jam: There might not be a better shooting five man in the class than Henri Veesaar. Veesaar’s play-finishing stretch big profile and shoot-pass-dribble skillset will allow him to play alongside both Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Similar to his pairing with Caleb Wilson at UNC, the athleticism and rim protection of Mobley and Allen can help cover up for some of Veesaar’s trouble defending in space. Veesaar could provide value off the bench or as a starter in the event Cleveland decides to move forward with an Allen trade.
#29. DETROIT PISTONS — Isaiah Evans | G/F | Duke
Profile: 6’6”, 180
Year: Sophmore (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.4 PTS | 3.5 REB | 1.4 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.0 BLK
40.7 FG% | 36.2 3P% | 89.8 FT%
Rucker: Detroit continues to build on their impressive previous season, finding themselves in contention for one of the top spots in the Eastern Conference. The Pistons continue to look like a team that has some talented defensive talent on the roster. However, this team could look to continue to target some legit floor-spacing talent as well. After coming into the year as a potential sophomore leap candidate, Duke sophomore Isaiah Evans has yet to showcase his best basketball. He’s slowly starting to heat up, but Evans can shoot the cover off the ball and has some intriguing two-way potential. For a team like Detroit, this would be some intriguing value to land at the end of the first round.
#30. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via OKC) — Neoklis Avdalas | G/F | Virginia Tech
Profile: 6’9”, 215
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.5 PTS | 3.4 REB | 5.0 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.6 BLK
42.5 FG% | 32.9 3P% | 67.6 FT%
Stephen: After drafting Cam Boozer, the Wizards can do almost anything here. There are still a number of ways that the team could go, so adding a player who projects to be as offensively versatile as Neoklis Avdalas here makes a ton of sense. Listed at 6’9”, Neoklis comes with a height-of-eye advantage that teams don’t find at this point of the draft. He is a natural playmaker who is capable and happy to make the lives of others around him easier. He boasts an Assist Percentage of 20 and an Assist-to-Turnover Ratio of 2. At his size, he comes with grab-and-go potential, which will certainly be an addition to Washington’s roster. He operates out of pick-and-roll sets more than any other play type, which will pair nicely with Cam Boozer.
The Wizards have done well to add talent in Alex Sarr, Tre Johnson, and Kyshawn George, but most of their better, young players aren’t the type that will organize their most efficient shots for themselves–let alone others. This had to have been the vision in acquiring Trae Young. Adding another organizer with size and upside is a smart play for Washington to make here, and gives them even more upside as this team continues to grow together.
SECOND ROUND
#31. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via IND) — Tyler Tanner | G | Vanderbilt
Profile: 6’0”, 173
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.3 PTS | 3.6 REB | 5.4 AST | 2.6 STL | 0.6 BLK
51.4 FG% | 38.8 3P% | 85.7 FT%
#32. SACRAMENTO KINGS — JT Toppin | F | Texas Tech
Profile: 6’9”, 230
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
20.6 PTS | 11.0 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.7 BLK
55.6 FG% | 14.8 3P% | 47.9 FT%
#33. BOSTON CELTICS (via NOLA) — Joshua Jefferson | F | Iowa State
Profile: 6’9”, 240
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.4 PTS | 7.8 REB | 4.9 AST | 1.5 STL | 1.1 BLK
49.8 FG% | 36.7 3P% | 73.3 FT%
#34. NEW YORK KNICKS (via WAS) — Emanuel Sharp | G | Houston
Profile: 6’3”, 205
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.9 PTS | 3.1 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK
43.1 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 84.5 FT%
#35. BROOKLYN NETS — Zuby Ejiofor | F | St. John’s
Profile: 6’9”, 245
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.8 PTS | 7.5 REB | 3.1 AST | 1.4 STL | 2.2 BLK
52.1 FG% | 29.6 3P% | 71.5 FT%
#36. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via UTA) — Ryan Conwell | G | Louisville
Profile: 6’4”, 215
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
19.5 PTS | 5.0 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.2 BLK
39.3 FG% | 36.4 3P% | 82.1 FT%
#37. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via CHA) — Ebuka Okorie | G | Stanford
Profile: 6’2”, 185
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
22.1 PTS | 3.7 REB | 2.9 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.3 BLK
43.2 FG% | 31.1 3P% | 81.5 FT%
#38. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via DAL) — Daniel Jacobsen | C | Purdue
Profile: 7’4”, 250
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
8.4 PTS | 3.9 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.1 STL | 2.1 BLK
68.4 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 68.3 FT%
#39. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS — Meleek Thomas | G | Arkansas
Profile: 6’5”, 185
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.4 PTS | 3.4 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.1 BLK
39.9 FG% | 37.7 3P% | 83.0 FT%
#40. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via MEM) — Dailyn Swain | F | Texas
Profile: 6’8”, 220
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.8 PTS | 7.1 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.4 BLK
55.4 FG% | 28.2 3P% | 75.0 FT%
#41. BOSTON CELTICS (via MIL) — Billy Richmond III | G | Arkansas
Profile: 6’6”, 205
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
8.6 PTS | 3.4 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.4 BLK
57.3 FG% | 32.0 3P% | 77.1 FT%
#42. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via CHI) — Dame Sarr | G/F | Duke
Profile: 6’8”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
6.4 PTS | 3.4 REB | 0.8 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.2 BLK
39.3 FG% | 35.7 3P% | 51.6 FT%
#43. BROOKLYN NETS (via ATL) — Alex Karaban | F | UConn
Profile: 6’8”, 230
Year: Senior (23)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
13.9 PTS | 5.3 REB | 2.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.9 BLK
50.0 FG% | 43.9 3P% | 88.6 FT%
#44. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via POR) — Flory Bidunga | F/C | Kansas
Profile: 6’10”, 235
Year: Sophomore (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
13.7 PTS | 8.8 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.8 STL | 2.5 BLK
64.3 FG% | 0 3P% | 68.6 FT%
#45. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via MIA) — De’Shayne Montgomery | G | Dayton
Profile: 6’4”, 190
Year: Junior
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.7 PTS | 4.1 REB | 2.4 AST | 2.6 STL | 0.5 BLK
52.6 FG% | 36.8 3P% | 82.7 FT%
#46. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via GSW) — Juke Harris | G | Wake Forest
Profile: 6’7”, 200
Year: Sophomore (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
20.4 PTS | 6.3 REB | 1.5 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.2 BLK
46.2 FG% | 33.9 3P% | 76.5 FT%
#47. ORLANDO MAGIC — Paul McNeil | G | NC State
Profile: 6’5”, 190
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.1 PTS | 4.3 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
43.5 FG% | 41.9 3P% | 81.0 FT%
#48. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS — Dash Daniels | G | Melbourne
Profile: 6’5”, 198
Year: 2007 Born (18)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
4.8 PTS | 2.2 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.3 BLK
44.8 FG% | 42.5 3P% | 36.0 FT%
#49. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via PHI) — Tarris Reed Jr. | F/C | UConn
Profile: 6’11”, 265
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.5 PTS | 7.6 REB | 2.0 AST | 1.1 STL | 2.0 BLK
62.1 FG% | 0 3P% | 57.6 FT%
#50. TORONTO RAPTORS — Jaden Bradley | G | Arizona
Profile: 6’3”, 200
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
13.6 PTS | 3.6 REB | 4.6 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
52.7 FG% | 51.9 3P% | 81.5 FT%
#51. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via PHX) — Milos Uzan | G | Houston
Profile: 6’4”, 195
Year: Senior (23)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
11.3 PTS | 2.8 REB | 4.1 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
35.3 FG% | 29.0 3P% | 79.5 FT%
#52. HOUSTON ROCKETS — Duke Miles | G | Vanderbilt
Profile: 6’2”, 180
Year: Senior (23)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
17.2 PTS | 2.8 REB | 4.4 AST | 2.9 STL | 0.4 BLK
47.3 FG% | 34.8 3P% | 87.9 FT%
#53. ATLANTA HAWKS (via BOS) — Andrej Stojakovic | W | Illinois
Profile: 6’7”, 205
Year: Junior (21)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.5 PTS | 4.4 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.7 BLK
52.1 FG% | 22.7 3P% | 79.1 FT%
#54. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via NYK) — Malachi Moreno | C | Kentucky
Profile: 7’0”, 250
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
9.3 PTS | 6.3 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.3 BLK
65.1 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 67.9 FT%
#55. TORONTO RAPTORS (via LAL) — Johann Grunloh | C | Virginia
Profile: 7’0”, 240
Year: Freshman (20)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
8.9 PTS | 6.8 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.6 STL | 2.6 BLK
53.2 FG% | 34.3 3P% | 50.0 FT%
#56. NEW YORK KNICKS (via MIN) — Richie Saunders | G | BYU
Profile: 6’5”, 200
Year: Senior (24)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
19.4 PTS | 5.5 REB | 2.3 AST | 2.2 STL | 0.3 BLK
51.3 FG% | 40.9 3P% | 82.9 FT%
#57. PHOENIX SUNS (via DEN) — Killyan Toure | G | Iowa State
Profile: 6’3”, 205
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
10.4 PTS | 3.6 REB | 2.9 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
48.0 FG% | 29.7 3P% | 75.6 FT%
#58. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via SAS) — Lamar Wilkerson | G | Indiana
Profile: 6’6”, 205
Year: Senior (24)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
20.2 PTS | 3.1 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.1 BLK
45.9 FG% | 42.4 3P% | 87.7 FT%
#59. NEW YORK KNICKS (via DET) — Braden Smith | G | Purdue
Profile: 6’0”, 170
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
14.1 PTS | 3.7 REB | 9.8 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
48.0 FG% | 40.6 3P% | 73.9 FT%
#60. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via OKC) — Rafael Castro | F | George Washington
Profile: 6’11”, 220
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 1/13/26):
15.9 PTS | 8.1 REB | 1.6 AST | 2.0 STL | 1.3 BLK
65.8 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 69.3 FT%
I have developed a machine learning approach to find the best fit for every team in the draft, you can check it out: https://thesportoverthinkers.substack.com/p/nba-draft-picks-2026
I disagree with Peterson at Indiana, boozer is the most now ready player that would slot into the pacers roster without needing to be a top 2 option. Pacers are taking a gap year like the spurs did, the only difference is regardless of how good this draft looks, there's no wemby in this draft.