The NBA regular season has ended, prompting teams to focus on the 2026 NBA Draft. Scouts are evaluating collegiate prospects, especially after the March Madness tournament, as the draft lottery is set for May 10 in Chicago.
The NBA regular season is over, which means many teams are shifting their focus entirely to the 2026 NBA Draft.
With nearly half of the teams done with games for the season, their scouts and front office executives will soon determine which future pros they may add to their roster for next year. After an exciting March Madness tournament won by the Michigan Wolverines, several prospects showed exactly what they can offer in the league.
As many collegiate players announce their intention to declare early entry to the 2026 NBA Draft, we can start to develop a more clear picture of what this class may look like.
The 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, which will determine the order of picks one through fourteen, will be held May 10 in Chicago, followed immediately that week by the draft combine, also in Chicago.
Here's how USA TODAY currently projects the No. 28 pick will play out with Minnesota Timberwolves making the selection.
Our draft order is based on Tankathon.com and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
Stanford freshman Ebuka Okorie is an interesting early entry candidate in the 2026 NBA Draft. The first-team All-ACC guard was a day-one starter in the NCAA who is potentially capable of earning rotation minutes for a team like the Timberwolves. He averaged 23.2 points per game, recording 40 points against conference rival Virginia Tech and seven other games with at least. 30points. Okorie could also return to school but should earn serious first-round buzz if he turns pro.
See USA TODAY's full mock draft 10.0 here
(all stats as of April 8)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Minnesota Timberwolves NBA mock draft: latest predictions before 2026 playoffs
The 2026 NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10 in Chicago.
The Michigan Wolverines won the March Madness tournament, showcasing several prospects for the 2026 NBA Draft.
The draft combine will follow immediately after the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery in Chicago.
LIV Golf's future appears uncertain as reports suggest Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund may withdraw funding after investing $5 billion. Despite assurances for the 2026 season, the tour faces challenges from low ratings and strong competition from the PGA Tour.
Wings shut down questions about Fudd and Bueckers' relationship
Damon Jones, former NBA player, to change plea to guilty in conspiracy case involving Terry Rozier.
Indiana Fever bolster roster by signing veteran guard Shatori Walker-Kimbrough
Joe Cole advises Arsenal to adjust their attack for the Man City match.
Former Indiana basketball players appeal dismissal of their lawsuit against the school.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.