Top 12 NBA draft prospects compared to current stars for 2026 class

ESPN analysts break down potential high and low NBA comps for the top 12 prospects in the 2026 draft class ahead of the June 23-24 event in Brooklyn.

AJ Dybantsa profile and projections AJ Dybantsa, a small forward from BYU projected as the first overall pick by Washington Wizards, is drawing comparisons to elite wings based on his scoring ability and physical tools. Analysts label him as a high-floor prospect with potential to become a dominant two-way force if his shooting and defense develop further. His mock draft projection at number one reflects his league-leading college scoring average of 25.5 points per game despite limitations from three-point range. Comparisons range from Jaylen Brown at his peak to a more gradual evolution like RJ Barrett, with Kawhi Leonard mentioned for his rare blend of size and competitiveness. ## Darryn Peterson's draft outlook Darryn Peterson, a guard from Kansas projected second overall to Utah Jazz, is seen as having the highest ceiling in the draft thanks to his three-point shooting and scoring versatility. Scouts debate whether he will develop into a primary ball handler like Damian Lillard or a more complementary scorer like Jamal Murray, noting his potential to lead leagues in scoring if healthy. His high school background suggests he could thrive with increased on-ball responsibilities, though questions linger about his assist creation and defensive impact in a primary role. The blend of size, shooting, and defensive willingness gives him a high floor regardless of usage. ## Cameron Boozer's unique skill set Cameron Boozer, a power forward-center from Duke projected third overall to Memphis Grizzlies, presents a rare profile combining elite production with unconventional traits like limited athleticism and rim protection. Analysts struggle to pinpoint exact NBA comparisons but highlight his NBA-readiness and diverse offensive contributions as standout traits. Potential high-end outcomes resemble Kevin Love's rebounding and scoring, while lower projections draw parallels to Domantas Sabonis for three-point shooting and playmaking. The absence of a perfect comp underscores his uniqueness and readiness for immediate impact. ## Caleb Wilson's developmental upside Caleb Wilson, a power forward-center from North Carolina projected fourth overall to Chicago Bulls, is viewed as a raw but high-upside prospect with room to grow in ball skills and shooting. His developmental pathway mirrors Pascal Siakam's evolution into a versatile offensive hub, with added defensive potential that could make him disruptive. Wilson's age advantage over Siakam at entry suggests longer runway for improvement, though his upright ball-handling remains a hurdle to overcome. Even if he doesn't fully develop those skills, his athleticism and motor make him a valuable contributor similar to John Collins' early Atlanta career. ## Keaton Wagler's on-ball potential Keaton Wagler, a guard from Illinois projected fifth overall to LA Clippers, fits the mold of a big guard who thrives on quick decisions and three-point shooting to space the floor. His playing style draws ties to Tyrese Haliburton for unselfishness and efficiency, though Wagler's slower tempo and smaller sample size leave room for growth. Comparisons also include Josh Giddey for positional size and playmaking, with Wagler entering the league as a better shooter. Scouts see multiple pathways for success, including roles as a primary ball handler or off-ball scorer. ## Darius Acuff Jr.'s scoring profile Darius Acuff Jr., a guard from Arkansas projected sixth overall to Brooklyn Nets, is described as a scoring guard who impacts winning through pace, strength, and three-level scoring versatility. His style draws comparisons to Jalen Brunson for physicality and shot creation over reliance on deep-range shooting, though some scouts see Trae Young's scoring potential. Acuff's ability to limit turnovers and command offensive sets makes him a dynamic piece, though defensive questions remain about optimal roster fit. His 23.5 points per game at Arkansas underscores his offensive impact. ## Kingston Flemings' transition game Kingston Flemings, a guard from Houston projected seventh overall to Sacramento Kings, is praised for his elite speed and transition scoring that creates pressure on defenses. His stylistic similarities to De'Aaron Fox include first-step quickness and midrange scoring, though Flemings lacks Fox's physical build and wingspan. Scouts highlight his energy defensively and potential to be a positive contributor despite being undersized, with continued three-point development seen as pivotal to his success. The comparison extends to guards like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday for two-way impact. ## Aday Mara's unique passing and size Aday Mara, a center from Michigan projected eighth overall to Atlanta Hawks, stands out for his rare combination of size, passing ability, and rim protection at 7-foot-3. His offensive hub potential could be elevated further by the development of a three-point shot, a skill still in early stages but within his grasp. Even without outside shooting, Mara's shot-blocking and floor-spacing upside make him a valuable asset, with comparisons ranging from Brook Lopez to Kristaps Porzingis. Scouts emphasize his potential to deter shots at one end and space the floor at the other. ## Mikel Brown Jr.'s playmaking talent Mikel Brown Jr., a guard from Louisville projected ninth overall to Dallas Mavericks, is highlighted for his creativity, playmaking, and tough shotmaking from long range. His skill set places him between LaMelo Ball and D'Angelo Russell, with physical tools that suggest starting-level point guard potential. Brown's offensive versatility and ability to create for teammates make him an intriguing prospect, though defensive development and shot selection will determine his long-term impact. His standout performance at the Under-19 World Cup last summer with Team USA added credibility to his draft stock. ## Nate Ament's polarizing profile Nate Ament, a forward from Tennessee projected tenth overall to Milwaukee Bucks, presents a skill set that polarizes evaluators due to the gap between pre-college expectations and collegiate results. His rare physical profile as a skilled perimeter forward with developing ball skills and shooting makes him a valuable prototype, but concerns about foot speed and efficiency cap his ceiling. Comparisons include Harrison Barnes for eventual starter potential and Jabari Smith for developmental pathway, though Ament's role may be more limited initially. His long-term value hinges on continued improvement as a shooter and defender. ## Brayden Burries' two-way profile Brayden Burries, a guard from Arizona projected eleventh overall to Golden State Warriors, offers a solid two-way profile as a jack-of-all-trades with no elite skills but no glaring weaknesses. His age and one-season college body of work make him an intriguing plug-and-play option, with potential to evolve into a higher-usage playmaker or secondary scorer depending on role. Scouts compare him to Derrick White for defensive effort and Derrick White's offensive role, though Burries lacks the explosiveness. His all-around offensive impact, including a strong finish to the season, suggests he can contribute immediately. ## Yaxel Lendeborg's versatile game Yaxel Lendeborg, a forward from Michigan projected twelfth overall to Oklahoma City Thunder, combines center-like size with small forward versatility, including defensive versatility across all positions. His ability to handle the ball in transition, space the floor, and impact the glass makes him a unique prospect, though his age (turning 24 in September) raises questions about developmental runway. Comparisons include Jalen Johnson for All-Star potential and Aaron Gordon for immediate role-player impact, with his physical gifts and all-around game promising early contributions. Scouts debate whether his rapid improvement trajectory can match Johnson's ascent.