AJ Dybantsa. Image via: Ed Zurga/Getty ImagesNBA draft 2026 update projections are beginning to solidify as front offices finalize their draft boards ahead of draft night. While the race for the No. 1 pick remains competitive, AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson and Keaton Wagler have separated themselves as the consensus top tier of prospects.So far, as per projection, the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Clippers are expected to make pivotal selections near the top of the lottery; these five prospects could shape the league's future for years to come.Which teams are favored to select the top 5 prospects?No. 1: AJ Dybantsa: Washington Wizards emerge as favorite for BYU starPlayer detailsHeight: 6-foot-9Position: Small ForwardCollege: BYUProjected landing spot: Washington WizardsDybantsa has been the leading candidate to hear his name called first on draft night. The BYU freshman strengthened his standing throughout the season and reinforced it during the pre-draft process, where his measurements and athletic profile confirmed what scouts already believed: he possesses the physical tools of a franchise wing.Washington appears to be the most likely destination. Dybantsa worked out for both the Wizards and Jazz, but recent projections continue to connect him with the top pick. His ability to create shots from all three levels, attack the rim and operate as a point-forward gives him arguably the highest offensive ceiling in the class.There are still questions about his perimeter shooting consistency and defensive engagement. Even so, league executives increasingly view him as the safest bet among the draft's elite prospects. If those areas improve, Dybantsa has the profile of a future MVP candidate.No. 2: Darryn Peterson: Elite scorer projected to land with the Memphis Grizzlies Darryn Peterson. Image via: Mitchell Layton/ Getty ImagesPlayer detailsHeight: 6-foot-6Position: GuardCollege: KansasProjected landing spot: Memphis GrizzliesPeterson may be the most naturally gifted scorer available. The Kansas freshman combines positional size with advanced shot-making ability, allowing him to create offense in ways few players his age can.Although injuries and availability concerns complicated parts of his freshman season, NBA evaluators remain convinced of his long-term upside. His ability to make difficult shots late in possessions stands out in a class loaded with talent.Memphis has emerged as a logical landing spot. The Grizzlies need another dynamic creator in the backcourt, and Peterson's scoring instincts could complement an already promising young core.No. 3: Cameron Boozer: Utah Jazz linked to draft's most NBA-ready prospectPlayer detailsHeight: 6-foot-9Position: Power Forward/CenterCollege: DukeProjected landing spot: Utah JazzFew prospects enter the draft with a stronger résumé than Boozer. The Duke star collected major national awards, shot nearly 40 percent from three-point range and posted one of the best statistical seasons in college basketball.What separates Boozer is not elite athleticism but polish. He processes the game quickly, makes winning plays and impacts multiple areas of the floor. Scouts consistently point to his passing, leadership and decision-making as NBA-ready traits.Utah's roster construction makes the fit particularly intriguing. Surrounded by size and frontcourt talent, Boozer would have the support needed to maximize his strengths while minimizing concerns about his vertical explosiveness.No. 4: Caleb Wilson: Chicago Bulls seen as ideal fit for North Carolina standoutCaleb Wilson. Image via: Ezra Shaw/ Getty ImagesPlayer detailsHeight: 6-foot-10Position: Power Forward/CenterCollege: North CarolinaProjected landing spot: Chicago BullsWilson's rise into the draft's top tier has been fueled by upside. The North Carolina freshman is widely regarded as one of the most explosive athletes in the class, capable of impacting games with his energy, length and mobility.His offensive game remains a work in progress, particularly as a shooter, but evaluators are encouraged by the progress he made during his lone college season.Chicago appears positioned to benefit if Wilson reaches his ceiling. The Bulls need frontcourt athleticism, and Wilson's ability to run the floor, finish above the rim and defend multiple positions offers significant long-term value.No. 5: Keaton Wagler: Los Angeles Clippers continue to monitor Illinois guardPlayer detailsHeight: 6-foot-6Position: GuardCollege: IllinoisProjected landing spot: Los Angeles ClippersWagler may not possess the explosive athleticism of some lottery peers, but his basketball IQ and versatility continue to attract attention from decision-makers around the league.The Illinois freshman emerged as one of the season's biggest risers while helping lead a Final Four run. His ability to control pace, create advantages and make sound decisions with the ball has made him one of the most intriguing guard prospects available.The Clippers and Nets are frequently mentioned as potential landing spots, but Los Angeles appears to be the strongest fit. Wagler's size and playmaking profile give him a realistic path toward becoming a long-term NBA starter, which is why his stock remains firmly inside the top five entering draft week.