Media personality Bill Simmons has projected an unexpected draft move for the Utah Jazz that could impact the Washington Wizards' strategy for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Washington Wizards hold the top selection and are considering BYU's AJ Dybantsa and Kansas guard Darryn Peterson.
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The Utah Jazz have the No. 2 pick.
Simmons shared his prediction during a recent episode of his podcast, stating that Jazz executive Danny Ainge might avoid Peterson and instead choose Cameron Boozer.
"I think he's gonna stay away from Peterson, and I could see him taking Boozer at two," Simmons said.
He acknowledged the uncertainty of draft projections but stood by his belief. "That would be my bet right now.
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I might be wrong, but I really think they're gonna take Boozer. I do.
I can't explain it, but I think they're gonna take Boozer at two," he added.
If the Jazz select Boozer, the Wizards could trade down with the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 3 to acquire additional assets while still targeting Peterson.
This scenario would require Washington to know Utah's plans in advance and trust that Memphis would not pick Peterson.
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According to Wiz of Awes, the most likely outcome remains that Washington keeps the top pick to draft Dybantsa.
