2026 nba mock draft

Art Scpae

4 min read

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17-12-2024

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2026 NBA Mock Draft: Projecting the Future Stars

The 2025-2026 NBA season is still a ways off, but the whispers of the 2026 NBA Draft are already beginning to circulate among scouts, analysts, and die-hard basketball fans. Predicting the future in any sport is a notoriously difficult task, but by analyzing current high school talent, emerging international prospects, and projecting their growth trajectories, we can attempt a reasonable mock draft for the 2026 class. This mock draft will focus on the top 14 picks, acknowledging the inherent uncertainty and fluidity of youth basketball.

Assumptions and Caveats:

Before diving into the selections, it's crucial to acknowledge several important caveats. Player development is unpredictable. Injuries can derail careers. Unexpected leaps or disappointments are common. This mock draft represents a snapshot in time, based on current information and projections. The order of teams is purely speculative, assuming no major playoff upsets or significant changes in team performance.

The Top 14 Picks:

1. Charlotte Hornets: Mikey Williams (PG/SG, USA) – Williams has been a highly touted prospect for years, known for his exceptional athleticism, scoring ability, and charisma. While his consistency needs refinement, his raw talent and potential to become a high-volume scorer make him the likely number one pick. His development will be crucial; if he refines his decision-making and improves his efficiency, he could be a franchise-altering player.

2. Detroit Pistons: Matas Buzelis (SF/PF, Lithuania) – Buzelis possesses a unique blend of size, skill, and athleticism. He's a fluid forward who can create his own shot, pass effectively, and rebound well. His international experience and adaptability make him a desirable prospect for a team rebuilding like the Pistons. He needs to add strength to compete consistently at the NBA level, but his upside is enormous.

3. Houston Rockets: Isaiah Elohim (PG/SG, USA) – A highly skilled guard with a knack for scoring and playmaking, Elohim presents a compelling package. He needs to prove his consistency and defensive capabilities, but his offensive arsenal is impressive. In a system that emphasizes offensive versatility, Elohim could thrive in Houston.

4. Orlando Magic: Andrej Stojakovic (SF, Serbia) – The son of NBA veteran Peja Stojakovic, Andrej is already drawing comparisons to his father's smooth shooting stroke and basketball IQ. He'll need to improve his strength and athleticism to excel in the NBA, but his fundamental skills and pedigree are undeniable. Orlando, focused on developing young talent, would be an ideal landing spot.

5. Washington Wizards: Ausar Thompson (SG, USA) – A versatile wing with impressive athleticism and defensive potential, Thompson might not be the highest-scoring prospect, but his all-around game makes him a valuable asset. He needs to improve his outside shooting, but his defensive intensity and playmaking abilities could make him a key contributor.

6. Toronto Raptors: Cody Williams (PF, USA) – Cody Williams, brother of Jalen Williams, is a skilled power forward with a developing offensive game. He's a strong rebounder and defender, but his offensive game needs further refinement. The Raptors, known for their developmental system, would be a good fit.

7. Oklahoma City Thunder: Omaha Biliew (SF/PF, USA) – Biliew is an intriguing prospect known for his length, athleticism, and defensive prowess. He displays potential as a versatile scorer, but he'll need to improve his consistency and decision-making to reach his full potential.

8. New Orleans Pelicans: Dariq Whitehead (SG/SF, USA) – While Whitehead hasn’t met early expectations, his athleticism and scoring ability remain notable. He's a high-risk, high-reward pick who, with the right coaching and development, could emerge as a key contributor.

9. Utah Jazz: Aden Holloway (PG, USA) – Holloway projects as a skilled ball-handler and playmaker who can run an offense. His outside shooting needs improvement, but his vision and ability to create for teammates would make him a valuable addition.

10. Memphis Grizzlies: Ron Holland (SF/PF, USA) – Holland is a powerful forward with exceptional athleticism and a developing offensive game. He needs to improve his perimeter skills, but his physicality and defensive potential are evident.

11. Phoenix Suns: Baba Miller (PF, Spain) – Miller is a skilled European prospect with great size and a high basketball IQ. He displays a good offensive game but needs to improve his physicality and overall athleticism.

12. Los Angeles Lakers: Justin Edwards (SG, USA) – Edwards is a talented wing player with impressive athleticism and a scoring instinct. However, he'll need to develop consistency and improve his efficiency to maximize his potential.

13. San Antonio Spurs: Amari Bailey (SG, USA) – Bailey is a highly touted guard with excellent scoring ability and ball-handling skills. His consistency and defensive awareness need to improve, but his offensive talent is unquestionable.

14. Sacramento Kings: Leonard Miller (SF/PF, Canada) – Miller is a versatile forward with great size and a developing skillset. He has demonstrated improvement in different aspects of the game, showing promise as a player who can score, rebound, and defend. The Kings could use his potential as they continue to build on their success.

Conclusion:

This 2026 NBA Mock Draft is, of course, speculative. The rankings and player evaluations are susceptible to change as players develop and new prospects emerge. However, it offers a glimpse into the potential talent pool and the strategic considerations teams will face when making their selections. The next few years will be crucial for watching these players mature and showcasing their abilities on the court, shaping the landscape of the 2026 NBA Draft and beyond. The path to the NBA is filled with challenges and surprises, but one thing is certain: the future of the league is bright and filled with incredible potential. This draft provides a tantalizing preview of the talent set to redefine the NBA landscape in the coming years. Remember to follow these young players' journeys closely, as this mock draft is merely a starting point in their exciting development.