Darryn Peterson appears firmly in the mix to be selected at the top of the 2026 NBA Draft after his recent medical evaluations reportedly eased concerns among teams around the league.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Woo, Peterson’s pre-draft medical reviews did not reveal any major issues, strengthening his position as one of the leading candidates to be chosen within the first two picks.
Sources told ESPN that the Washington Wizards have narrowed their focus for the No. 1 overall selection to Peterson and AJ Dybantsa. As the draft approaches, Peterson is widely viewed as one of the franchise’s primary targets.
Peterson has reportedly informed the Utah Jazz that he will not participate in any additional team visits, a decision that has been interpreted by many around the league as a sign that he hopes to hear his name called first overall by Washington.
The Kansas guard has already spent considerable time with the Wizards throughout the pre-draft process.
He previously met with team officials in Los Angeles and completed multiple workouts in front of key decision-makers within the organization.
Known for his offensive skill set, Peterson entered the season as ESPN’s top-ranked prospect and continues to be viewed by many evaluators as the most gifted scorer in the draft class.
While his freshman campaign was occasionally disrupted by cramping issues, Peterson has attributed those problems to his use of high levels of creatine rather than any long-term health concern.
Despite those setbacks, his standing near the top of the draft board has remained largely unchanged.
League observers also do not believe Peterson’s decision to decline a workout with Utah will significantly affect the Jazz’s evaluation process.
Similar situations have occurred in previous drafts, including last year when general manager Austin Ainge selected Ace Bailey without a pre-draft visit.
Should Peterson ultimately fall to the Jazz, many scouts believe he would fit well alongside Keyonte George, giving Utah another dynamic offensive playmaker as the franchise continues its push toward playoff contention.
Darryn Peterson’s Medicals Not Raising Red Flags, Wants To Play Point Guard In NBA https://t.co/zFfB7FQW1m
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 15, 2026
