The Washington Wizards face a complex decision with their No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Unlike the San Antonio Spurs’ drafting of Victor Wembanyama in 2023 or the Dallas Mavericks’ selection last year, the Wizards’ choice isn’t as clear-cut. Executives and scouts from opposing teams cite the unusual depth at the top of the 2026 draft class as the reason for the dilemma.
Dybantsa Leads as Favourite
In a survey conducted during the NBA Draft Combine, The Athletic polled 13 executives, scouts and front-office officials. They were asked who the Wizards should draft at No. 1 and under what circumstances they should consider trading the pick. Anonymity was granted to encourage honest answers.
The survey indicated that there is a clear separation between the top four prospects and the rest of the field. These top prospects are Cameron Boozer, AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Caleb Wilson.
Ten of the 13 executives and scouts named their preferred choice for the Wizards. Dybantsa received seven votes, while Peterson garnered two. One person voted for Boozer.
The Case for Dybantsa
One respondent who voted for Dybantsa said the Wizards should “take AJ and sleep like a baby”. This was due to Dybantsa’s high upside and floor, making him the safest pick. The respondent suggested Dybantsa’s worst-case scenario would be a career similar to Andrew Wiggins.
Another respondent said the choice should be easy: Dybantsa. “Don’t complicate it,” they stated.
Another person who voted for Dybantsa said that several players in the draft can be the face of a franchise but added that the attribute that separates Dybantsa from Wilson is the ability to handle the basketball in traffic.
Wilson’s Strengths
Although Wilson did not receive any votes in the poll, several of the respondents saw his value.
The Wizards’ decision remains a significant topic of discussion among NBA front offices.