Photo credit: Peter Baba
With the highest odds entering the lottery at 14 percent, the Washington Wizards secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, placing them in control of one of the most highly anticipated draft classes in recent years. This outcome gives the franchise a major opportunity to reshape its future.
Behind the Wizards, the Utah Jazz hold the No. 2 selection, followed by the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 3 and the Chicago Bulls at No. 4. The Indiana Pacers initially landed the fifth pick, but that selection will be transferred to the Los Angeles Clippers due to the Ivica Zubac trade completed earlier this season at the deadline.
Attention now turns to Washington’s front office, which faces a critical decision with the top pick. AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson are widely regarded as the two leading candidates to be selected first overall, while Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson are also projected among the elite prospects in this class. Utah had frequently been linked to Dybantsa throughout the season, especially as he reportedly moved ahead of Peterson on several teams’ draft boards. However, with the Wizards now holding the top pick, the draft’s direction is entirely in their hands.
Washington’s recent roster moves have further fueled intrigue around the organization’s plans. The Wizards made aggressive win-now trades this season for veteran All-Stars Trae Young and Anthony Davis, leaving observers to wonder whether the franchise will prioritize immediate competitiveness or continue building through the draft around young talent.
The complete 2026 NBA Draft Lottery results are as follows:
1. Washington Wizards
2. Utah Jazz
3. Memphis Grizzlies
4. Chicago Bulls
5. Los Angeles Clippers (via Indiana Pacers)
6. Brooklyn Nets
7. Sacramento Kings
8. Atlanta Hawks
9. Dallas Mavericks
10. Milwaukee Bucks
11. Golden State Warriors
12. (remaining order not listed)
