Photo: NBA Summer League/X

While the 2025 NBA Draft is widely regarded as a significant upgrade over the 2024 class, largely due to the presence of elite prospect Cooper Flagg, the 2026 draft has the potential to be even more impactful.

With blue-chip talents such as Darryn Peterson, A.J. Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Nate Ament all in the mix for the No. 1 overall pick, teams across the league are already positioning themselves for what could be one of the most stacked draft classes in recent memory.

The sheer depth of next year’s talent pool may once again lead to an environment where multiple franchises extend their rebuilding timelines, prioritizing long-term development over short-term competitiveness.

“Right now, there are nine teams tanking,” one league executive noted. “And next year’s draft is going to have maybe more franchise players than this year’s draft. A year from now, you may still have nine teams tanking.”

This suggests that the race for top-tier draft positioning could be just as intense – if not more – than it has been in previous years, as front offices weigh the benefits of competing now versus securing a potential cornerstone player in the future.

Franchises such as the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz, and Brooklyn Nets are expected to remain among the league’s bottom-tier teams next season, continuing their efforts to accumulate assets and develop young talent.

Meanwhile, squads like the New Orleans Pelicans and Philadelphia 76ers have the potential to rebound in the standings with improved health and roster stability.

The Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, and Chicago Bulls remain wild cards – while they each appear inclined to compete rather than tear down, their respective paths could shift depending on how the season unfolds.

With the draft lottery looming as a pivotal moment for multiple organizations, the NBA could witness another year of intense jockeying for position, as teams navigate the balance between immediate success and the pursuit of generational talent.