According to NBA Insider Marc Stein, multiple NBA draft experts have expressed that they ‘legitimately believe Darryn Peterson could be the Washington Wizards‘ choice at number one overall.
NBA Draft Experts Believe Darryn Peterson Could Be Top Pick For Wizards
The 2026 NBA Draft is quickly approaching, and the Wizards are holding the top pick for the first time since 2010. There has been nonstop discussion over who will be the top pick between AJ Dybantsa of BYU and Peterson of Kansas. For much of the draft process, since the lottery in May, the talk has been that Dybansta was the favorite to go one overall, with Peterson the clear second option for the top pick as well.
However, with only a couple of days until the big event, NBA Draft experts have expressed a real chance that Peterson could be the top pick for the Wizards. What’s interesting about the Peterson news is that Peterson’s camp also believes they have a good shot at going number one overall, having only visited and worked out for the Washington Wizards throughout the entire draft process.
With the Wizards having the top pick, they can go in any direction they want to go. Instead of declaring the consensus top prospect, Dybansta, the top pick overall from the beginning, the Wizards seem to be doing more than their due diligence to see if Peterson would truly be a great fit in Washington.
Peterson’s fit in Washington would be interesting, as Trae Young is expected to be the primary guard after the Wizards traded for him back in January. During the draft process, it has been reported that Peterson’s camp told certain teams that he views himself as a point guard despite his scoring guard background.
How Does Peterson Project in the NBA?
Peterson’s profile is a 6’4 ½ combo guard prospect and officially measured with an arm length of 6’9.75. He was ranked the top overall high school recruit in the class of 2025 according to recruiting ranking outlets 247sports and CBS Sports. He is known for his offensive prowess and shooting ability, having shot over 45 percent from three in his only season at Kansas. He averaged 20.2 points per game to go along with 4.5 rebounds a game.
However, Peterson dealt with injuries and significant cramping during his brief time at Kansas, which could raise concerns about his availability at the next level.
Wizards Must Get the Top Pick Right For the Future of the Franchise
Michael Winger, the president of Monumental Basketball operations, who oversees Wizards basketball operations, recently stated that, for the Wizards to become a contender and eventually a champion, getting this top pick right is critical.
“Having the number one pick is a big responsibility, and we have to get that pick right,” Winger told NBC4 Sports. “It’s not just selecting a good player, it’s selecting a good player who’s also an ambassador for Washington, D.C. You make the decision, and that’s your swing. You can’t get a refund 30 days later if you save your receipt kind of thing, so we have to get it right.
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