Darryn Peterson has made one thing clear as the 2026 NBA Draft approaches: his process is built around Washington, and Utah is no longer part of it.
According to Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal, Peterson has “steered his process toward Washington and away from Utah,” and if he is not taken No. 1 by the Wizards, his camp would “rather he end up with the Memphis Grizzlies, who pick No. 3, than with Utah at No. 2.” That is a sharp turn in a draft where the Jazz hold a premium selection and are still searching for a long-term direction.
Peterson’s stance matters because he is viewed as one of the top players in the class. The Kansas guard said he believes he is the best player in the draft, and his only formal visit has been with Washington. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Peterson does not plan to meet with any other franchise before draft night, further narrowing his path at the top of the board.
That puts Utah in an awkward position. The Jazz own the No. 2 pick, but Peterson’s camp appears to be signaling that there are preferred landing spots above them. Utah has also brought in Duke forward Cameron Boozer, another top prospect whose game the organization reportedly likes. But the fit is complicated by roster construction. The Jazz already have Lauri Markkanen, acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. in a midseason trade, and want to re-sign restricted free agent Walker Kessler. Adding another frontcourt piece would only deepen that logjam.
Peterson’s preference echoes a trend that has already played out in this draft cycle. Afseth noted that the Jazz have precedent for ignoring a prospect’s desired destination, pointing to 2025, when Utah selected Ace Bailey at No. 5 even though his camp tried steering him toward Washington at No. 6. Bailey reported to Utah without incident and has since changed representation.
Utah’s willingness to take the best player available, even when the prospect’s camp is pushing elsewhere, could again define the franchise’s decision. The difference this time is that the Jazz are sitting higher, and the pressure to get the pick right is even greater.
Peterson’s lone season at Kansas only strengthened his stock. In 24 games, he averaged 20.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 29.0 minutes per game, while shooting 38.2% from three and 82.6% from the free-throw line. His scoring profile and perimeter efficiency have kept him near the top of the draft conversation alongside AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer.
Washington controls the No. 1 pick, Utah owns No. 2, and Memphis sits at No. 3. With Peterson’s camp signaling a preference order, the top of the draft is starting to take shape before anyone walks to the stage.
