The first 2026 NBA mock draft after the trade deadline: Giannis’ future shapes the summer

In this scenario, Sacramento secures the No. 1 pick. The Kings have the worst record in the NBA, have lost 10 straight and deliberately did nothing to rectify that at the deadline. In Peterson, they land a dynamic guard they can build around for the next generation. Some of his on-again, off-again availability issues have been labeled “bizarre,” but between the lines he has size, length, physicality, shot-making and playmaking — essentially everything a franchise could want.

Indiana’s pick will go to the Clippers if it lands between Nos. 5-9, incentivizing the Pacers to keep losing games. What could complicate that is the arrival of Ivica Zubac, who is now the team’s center of the future but would probably be best utilized outside the lineup for the next 30 days. With Zubac joining Tyrese Haliburton (following his return from injury next season) and Pascal Siakam, Indiana wants to compete now. Boozer is the player best able to contribute immediately while also bridging the program’s future, even if AJ Dybantsa may have higher long-term upside.

With a 13-37 record, the Nets currently have a 48% chance of landing in the top three. In this scenario, they end up with Dybantsa, who would provide a go-to scorer to punctuate a developing young core. The 6-foot-9 wing will be a candidate to go first or second and almost certainly won’t fall below No. 3. If Michael Porter Jr. remains in Brooklyn, the two would fit nicely alongside Noah Clowney and Egor Demin.

The Anthony Davis trade was motivated by the fact that Dallas does not control its own first-round pick again until 2031. Between that and the star power atop this draft, 2026 represents the best chance in the foreseeable future to find a long-term running mate for Cooper Flagg. While Dallas would love to land any of the top three, Wilson provides an elite athlete at the four and a defensive playmaker whose offense has proven ahead of schedule at North Carolina.

Davis may now be a Wizard, but Washington remains highly incentivized to lose. The team keeps its pick if it lands in the top eight; otherwise, it goes to the Knicks. In other words, don’t expect to see much of Trae Young and Davis together until next season. Flemings gives Washington an explosive athlete and legitimate creator at lead guard, with the potential to share the floor with Young early and mesh long-term with Tre Johnson.

Atlanta lands its lead guard of the future in Wagler, who brings positional size, shooting and a deliberate pace that should complement Jalen Johnson. He joins a promising young group that includes Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, Jonathan Kuminga and Asa Newell, while also benefiting from playing with or behind Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who is under contract through 2027-28.

Ja Morant may still be in Memphis, but that could change this offseason. With no true point guard among its young core, the Grizzlies turn to Brown, whose size and skill with the ball stand out. Memphis’ organizational culture should help him make necessary physical and defensive gains.

Utah is ready to compete after acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr., but the Jazz only retain this pick if it lands in the top eight. Ament adds a versatile combo forward and long-term asset to develop alongside Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, Walker Kessler and the rest of Utah’s young core.

Antetokounmpo is expected to be moved this summer, signaling a rebuild. Quaintance provides interior defense and flexibility, whether alongside Myles Turner or as a foundational frontcourt piece.

Charlotte is playing its best basketball in years and pushing for the playoffs. Peat supplies rim pressure and an NBA-ready physicality that this core currently lacks.

One of the picks from the Paul George trade turns into Haugh, a versatile wing who fits OKC’s defensive culture and values.

Cenac’s measurables and defensive versatility stand out. He is already spacing the floor and projects as a long-term four or five.

With Scoot Henderson nearing his season debut, Portland evaluates its future at point guard. Acuff offers scoring and creation, though this pick would convey to Chicago if it lands outside the lottery.

Steinbach provides size, shooting range and inside-out skill to complement Victor Wembanyama.

With a second first-rounder, Memphis adds another jumbo wing with two-way versatility.

Miami faces perimeter turnover. Burries fits the Heat culture and offers positional flexibility and shooting.

Stirtz fits Steve Kerr’s system perfectly with shooting, movement and feel for the game.

Toronto still lacks elite guard depth. Philon provides scoring, playmaking and defensive upside.

Ngongba offers defensive presence and developing offense as OKC plans for frontcourt flexibility.

Lopez is a skilled offensive wing from Mexico playing in New Zealand, offering versatility and developmental upside.

Anderson gives Charlotte a contingency option at guard with high skill and basketball IQ.

Jefferson’s strength, defense, passing and spacing make him a cost-effective contributor.

Carr brings length, athleticism and shooting but will need time to add strength.

Evans provides floor spacing and size around Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.

Veesaar projects as a long-term backup center option behind Nikola Jokic.

Mullins’ elite shooting and underrated defense fit Boston’s needs.

Mara provides massive size and defensive impact as Mitchell Robinson approaches free agency.

Johnson’s physicality complements Cleveland’s two-big approach.

Yessoufou is a high-upside long-term play late in the first round.

Harris offers size and shooting on the wing to space the floor around Cooper Flagg.