As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, several teams are already positioning themselves for a shot at the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. This draft class is expected to be exceptional, reminiscent of the strong classes in NBA history. It features three standout prospects: Darryn Peterson from Kansas, Cameron Boozer from Duke, and AJ Dybantsa from BYU. These players are seen as potential franchise cornerstones, making this a prime year for teams to chase the top pick.
Top Contenders for the No. 1 Pick
Here are the seven teams that are likely to lead the race for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft:
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Sacramento Kings
The Kings seem poised for another rebuild. Despite having star players like Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and DeMar DeRozan, questions linger about the team’s overall effectiveness. Injuries, including a torn ligament for promising player Keegan Murray, add to their challenges.
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Phoenix Suns
The Suns do not control their first-round draft picks until 2032, following trades that dismantled their roster. Devin Booker remains, but the team lacks significant depth and effective synergy among its players. With an underwhelming supporting cast, they are at risk of struggling this season.
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New Orleans Pelicans
Zion Williamson’s health is crucial for the Pelicans, especially after they traded their 2026 first-round pick to Atlanta. With a mix of role players and an uncertain future based on Williamson’s performance, this team could find itself attempting to tank for a higher draft pick.
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Charlotte Hornets
LaMelo Ball’s injury history raises concerns about the Hornets’ ability to compete. While they have talented players, such as Brandon Miller and rookie Kon Knueppel, their frontcourt is weak, leaving them vulnerable in a tough Eastern Conference.
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Brooklyn Nets
In their first year of a planned two-year tanking window, the Nets acquired new talent but currently confront a mix of veterans without long-term potential. With the focus shifting to developing young talent, they face a challenging season ahead.
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Utah Jazz
Still recovering from the trades of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, the Jazz are looking to build through the draft. Their roster includes promising players, but they lack NBA-ready talent, making them prime candidates for a poor season.
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Washington Wizards
The Wizards have struggled significantly over the last two seasons. With a collection of young prospects but no clear franchise player, they are expected to battle for the worst record, increasing their chances at a top draft pick.
Conclusion
As the 2025-26 season gets underway, the focus will be on how these teams perform and how their efforts to secure a higher draft position unfold. With such a promising draft class on the horizon, expect a competitive tanking race among the NBA’s struggling franchises.
