The debate over the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft has largely centered on three names: Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer.
Peterson’s talent has never really been the question. The Kansas guard entered the draft cycle as one of the most polished scorers in the class and remains firmly in the conversation for the No. 1 selection.
But as teams finalize their evaluations, concerns beyond pure basketball ability are becoming part of the discussion.
Why Stephen A. Smith Questions Darryn Peterson’s Reliability
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith added fuel to that conversation, making it clear that if he were holding the first pick, Peterson wouldn’t be his choice.
Smith didn’t challenge Peterson’s skill set. His concern was availability.
Speaking on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith delivered a blunt assessment of the former Kansas star, saying, “Ain’t no way in hell I’m taking you No. 1 overall, if it were me. For one reason above all else, I don’t trust your availability, period.”
The comments stem from a season in which Peterson showed why scouts view him as a franchise-level prospect, but also missed extended time.
The 6-foot-5 combo guard averaged 20.2 points per game and shot 38.2% from beyond the arc. He also converted 82.6% of his free throws and consistently pressured defenses by getting to the line.
When healthy, he looked every bit like a future NBA scorer. Peterson posted a season-high 32 points against TCU and buried six 3-pointers in a victory over Oklahoma State. His production, combined with his size and shot-making ability, helped keep him near the top of draft boards.
Still, teams had to evaluate a season interrupted by injuries and illnesses. Peterson missed 11 games and dealt with recurring cramping issues along with hamstring and ankle problems. Smith suggested those concerns extend beyond the medical report.
“I want the brother to succeed, but he needs to understand, word is out on him in terms of questions about his willingness to actually show up to work day in and day out, night in and night out basis to perform,” Smith added.
That criticism arrives even as ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo reported that Peterson’s medical evaluations have not raised major red flags among NBA organizations.
But the criticism hasn’t changed Peterson’s standing near the top of the draft.
The Washington Wizards own the No. 1 pick and are widely believed to be deciding between Peterson and AJ Dybantsa.
Peterson reportedly visited only with Washington, while Dybantsa also met with the Utah Jazz, who hold the No. 2 selection. Former Wizards star John Wall has already made his preference clear.
“For me, I’m taking Darryn Peterson No. 1,” Wall said. “But I’ve got AJ Dybantsa second.”
Utah’s position has become another layer in the story.
MORE: Lakers’ NBA Draft Targets: 6 Prospects Los Angeles Should Pursue in 2026 Class
Peterson recently canceled a scheduled workout with the Jazz amid reports that he believes Washington will take him first overall. Yet that move doesn’t appear to have damaged his stock in Salt Lake City.
According to reports, Utah remains divided among Peterson, Dybantsa, and Cameron Boozer for the No. 2 pick. The organization reportedly isn’t overly concerned about the canceled workout, pointing to last year’s selection of Ace Bailey, who also did not work out for the franchise before being drafted.
