Finkelstein Mock Draft: Combine Intel Reshapes Late First-Round Projections

CBS Sports analyst Adam Finkelstein has released his first post-combine mock draft for the 2026 NBA Draft, integrating insights gathered during the scouting event in Chicago. The update follows a period of largely affirming feedback on previous projections, with the latest data verifying the initial top-two selections despite some reported dialogue between the Washington Wizards and the Utah Jazz.

The Washington Wizards are projected to select AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick, while the Utah Jazz are expected to choose Darryn Peterson second. These placements remain consistent with earlier assessments, suggesting stability at the very top of the draft board as teams finalise their strategies following the lottery.

Further down the first round, the Memphis Grizzlies are projected to select Cameron Boozer third. Although the organisation has not publicly indicated a preference between Boozer and Caleb Wilson, Finkelstein notes that Memphis’ recent draft history demonstrates a clear inclination towards the physicality and productivity associated with Boozer’s game.

The Chicago Bulls are projected to select Caleb Wilson fourth, taking whichever of the two forwards remains after Memphis’ decision. The top ten is expected to feature four one-and-done freshmen, with the Los Angeles Clippers potentially targeting a point guard. While there is skepticism regarding four consecutive freshmen selections, the Clippers are identified as the only team in the top ten without a defined positional need, complicating their decision-making process.

Significant shifts from previous projections are concentrated in the latter half of the first round, specifically among teams selecting in the 20s. Finkelstein states that feedback from the Chicago combine, encompassing both on-floor performance and behind-the-scenes intelligence, has weighed heavily on these specific placements, marking the most dynamic area of change in the updated mock draft.