A way-too-early look at who the Nets could target in the 2026 NBA draft

C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News on Dec 13, 2025

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NEW YORK — While there’s plenty of season left, the Nets‘ odds at a top-three selection in the 2026 NBA draft have slipped a bit after a recent hot streak. Entering Friday, Tankathon had them picking sixth in a loaded draft class, with a 37.2% chance at a top-four selection and a 9% chance at the No. 1 overall pick.

Brooklyn took an NBA-record five players in the first round of the 2025 NBA draft, headlined by Egor Demin (No. 8), Nolan Traore (No. 19), Drake Powell (No. 22), Ben Saraf (No. 26) and Danny Wolf (No. 27).

While each member of the Flatbush Five has shown flashes this season, whether with the big club or in the G League, fans can’t help but look ahead to the next wave of talent. Brooklyn currently owns its own first-round pick in 2026, plus two second-rounders.

Mock draft season is already in full swing. Based on several credible sources, here’s a way-too-early look at the types of players the Nets may be targeting.

ESPN: Darryn Peterson (No. 1 overall)

Guard, Kansas, Freshman

Peterson has quickly emerged as one of the most polished and well-rounded freshman guards in years. He can score at all three levels, has the size and athleticism to hold up physically, competes defensively and brings the kind of edge coaches love. Per ESPN’s Jeremy Woo, some scouts haven’t been overly impressed with the pieces around Peterson at Kansas, which only makes it clearer that the Jayhawks will go as far as he can take them.

The Athletic: AJ Dybantsa (No. 3 overall)

Forward, BYU, Freshman

Some scouts still see Dybantsa as a legitimate No. 1 option. His physical tools might be the best of any wing entering a pre-draft year in a long time. His blend of flexibility and explosiveness lets him live in the paint, and he’s relentless in transition. He’s already a high-level producer with even more upside to unlock.

CBS Sports: Caleb Wilson (No. 4 overall)

Forward, North Carolina, Freshman

Wilson has been one of the more enjoyable players to watch this season because of how consistently hard he plays. His impact goes well beyond scoring, and his defensive activity, unselfish approach and outgoing personality have all stood out early on at UNC. Given how well his game translates and how reliably he brings energy, it’s easy to see why many project him as a top-five pick.

Bleacher Report: Koa Peat (No. 6 overall)

Forward, Arizona, Freshman

Peat’s game is pretty straightforward. He scores through post-ups, rolls, finishes and put-backs, and he’s good at all of them. What we haven’t really seen yet from him is ball-handling or reliable 3-point shooting. Scouts will be split on his long-term upside, since he’s a 6-8 and his offense relies heavily on contested 2s. Still, if he keeps producing, his efficiency and maturity at just 18 should stand out.

Sports Illustrated: Hannes Steinbach (No. 7 overall)

Center, Washington, Freshman

Steinbach has only appeared in a few games, but scouts already see a strong rebounder with soft touch around the basket. He’s bigger and more mobile than many expected, and his length shows up on both ends. The questions revolve around how his game translates against higher-level athletes and whether he can expand his skill set beyond finishing inside.