The NBA regular season has concluded, prompting teams to focus on the 2026 NBA Draft. With many collegiate players declaring for the draft, scouts are evaluating prospects ahead of the draft lottery on 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. 20 pick will play out with Toronto Raptors making the selection.
Our draft order is based on Tankathon.com and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.
Toronto Raptors 2026 projected draft picks
No. 20 and No. 49
Toronto Raptors 2026 NBA Draft prediction: Pick No. 20 overall, Bennett Stirtz, G, Iowa
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
The Raptors need another guard and should have Bennett Stirtz on their priority list. After transferring from Division II to a mid-major and then to a high-major program, he is at the top of the class in creating his own shot off the dribble in isolation or the pick-and-roll. The All-Big Ten guard can also finish plays from dribble handoffs. His play during March Madness, which included 24 points against Illinois and 20 points against Nebraska, earned a spot in the Elite Eight. The Raptors play at a slow pace, which would translate well for Stirtz, who did the same at Iowa.
The 2026 NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10 in Chicago.
Which teams are preparing for the 2026 NBA Draft?
Nearly half of the NBA teams are preparing for the 2026 NBA Draft as their regular season has ended.
What impact did the March Madness tournament have on the 2026 NBA Draft prospects?
The March Madness tournament highlighted several collegiate players, showcasing their potential and influencing their decision to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft.
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