CBS Sports projects AJ Dybantsa as top pick in 2026 NBA Draft lottery
The Oklahoma City Thunder face long odds for a top selection, while the Indiana Pacers are viewed as a prime candidate to secure a high draft pick next season.
CBS Sports has released its latest projections for the 2026 NBA Draft lottery, identifying AJ Dybantsa as the favourite to be selected first overall. The publication notes that while Dybantsa may have overtaken Darryn Peterson for the number one spot on their Big Board, this positioning is not definitive and remains subject to the due diligence of individual front offices.
Cameron Boozer is projected to round out the top three, taking the second overall pick. The analysis highlights his status as the winningest player in modern high school basketball history and the recipient of college basketball's player of the year honours. While his athletic upside may not match that of Dybantsa or Peterson, CBS Sports emphasises his superior floor and proven ability to impact winning.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have been noted as having long-standing interest in Cameron Boozer, with reports suggesting a potential pairing with Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams could solidify their frontline. However, the publication describes the Thunder's chances of moving up to the top of the lottery as improbable, citing their current asset value and win probability.
In contrast, the Indiana Pacers are highlighted as a franchise in win-now mode with a significantly higher probability of securing a high pick. CBS Sports states the Pacers have a 52 per cent chance of landing a top-four selection, a scenario where selecting Boozer would align well with their roster construction needs following the return of Tyrese Haliburton.
Caleb Wilson is considered a top-three option, specifically identified as a potential fit for the Memphis Grizzlies. The report notes that Wilson exceeded expectations in 24 games before a hand injury curtailed his season, averaging 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds. His selection in the top three would reportedly require a team willing to take a contrarian approach to the draft.
The Memphis Grizzlies are described as a franchise with a history of independent thought and aggressive drafting, having previously selected Zach Edey and Cedric Coward. With a 37 per cent chance of landing in the top four and roughly 27 per cent chance of being in the top three, the publication suggests Wilson's chances of being selected early grow exponentially if Memphis decides to go against the grain.
Ultimately, CBS Sports warns that while these projections offer a framework for the upcoming lottery, the final order will depend on how the 30 different front offices prioritise medical reports, interviews, and workouts ahead of the event.
