Full Breakdown
Utah Jazz’s No. 2 Draft Pick: Evaluating AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Richie Saunders Amid Trade Talk
5/14/2026, 12:34:40 PM
Core Event: Jazz Secure No. 2 Overall in 2026 NBA Draft Lottery
The Utah Jazz moved up in the 2026 NBA draft lottery to claim the No. 2 overall selection. The Washington Wizards hold the No. 1 pick. The Jazz will not retain a second-round pick. The draft is scheduled for June 23 (round 1) and June 24 (round 2).
Background & Context
Ryan Smith, a BYU alumnus, wants a wing or guard to join Ace Bailey, Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler. Utah last drafted two BYU players in the same draft in 1984.
Key Prospects
BYU forward AJ Dybantsa (6-ft-9, 7-ft-1 wingspan) led Division I scoring as a freshman and is a top-two candidate. Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, noted for size-adjusted shooting, also ranks in the top two. BYU wing Richie Saunders, 25, tore his ACL in February and is projected as a second-round pick.
Data & Statistics
Dybantsa (6-ft-9, 7-ft-1 wingspan) led Division I in scoring, excels in mid-range and transition offense, but his defense lags. Peterson shot 38 % from three in college; his record includes cramps and a hamstring issue. Saunders posted 37.6 % three-point shooting this season and 38.7 % over four BYU years; his ACL injury could limit early NBA minutes.
Why It Matters / Impact
The Jazz’s No. 2 pick could solidify a core with Ace Bailey and Keyonte George, while Washington’s No. 1 slot offers a chance to secure a franchise-changing talent. Trade talks could reshape both rebuilds.
Official Statements & Responses
The Jazz announced their No. 2 pick and said they will only trade it if a mutually beneficial deal emerges. Wizards officials, described as “patient, meticulous rebuilders,” expressed openness to swapping top picks for a named prospect.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts point to Dybantsa’s defensive shortcomings, Peterson’s lingering cramp-related health concerns, and Saunders’ ACL injury as factors that could diminish their immediate NBA impact.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Saunders’ draft outlook: one projects him as a second-round shooter, another claims the ACL injury “ends his career at BYU.” No official medical update has been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “1 on the big board, showcasing high-level scoring during his time at BYU with continued growth as a playmaker.” — Fletcher, Deseret News analyst
- “Darryn Peterson has all the tools at the guard spot to turn into an All-NBA level player. He scores the ball effortlessly and can toggle on and off the ball thanks to his size and shooting. The cramping issues at Kansas have dampened the excitement a bit for some, but the track record and glimpses are more than enough to keep him in Tier 1.” — Fletcher, Deseret News analyst
- “ What Woo said: “Dybantsa is a strong fit for Washington on paper, even with the Wizards’ collection of younger wings, with his physicality and athletic tools giving him major two-way upside.” — Woo, Deseret News analyst
What's Next
The NBA draft begins June 23. Utah may select Dybantsa, Peterson or Saunders, while Washington evaluates its options. Trade talks could see the Jazz and Wizards exchange picks or players, with the Jazz reluctant to overpay for Washington’s No. 1 slot. Updated scouting reports and medical evaluations will shape final decisions.
