The NBA regular season has concluded, prompting teams to focus on the 2026 NBA Draft. With many collegiate players declaring for early entry, predictions for potential draft picks are emerging 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. 5 pick will play out with Utah Jazz making the selection.
Our draft order is based on Tankathon.com and factors in trades, including swaps and protections.
Kalbrosky's Analysis:
The Jazz had the worst defensive rating in the Western Conference and could potentially improve that by selecting Houston freshman Kingston Flemings to join Keyonte George in their backcourt. The All-Big 12 guard has several games when he has recorded at least three steals, notching eight against Arizona State earlier this season. He scored 42 points against No. 11 Texas Tech on Jan. 24. Flemings helped lead Houston to the Sweet 16, and with highs as high as his were this season, it will not take long for him to hear his name called on draft night.
See USA TODAY's full mock draft 10.0 here
(all stats as of April 8)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Utah Jazz NBA mock draft: latest predictions before 2026 playoffs
The 2026 NBA Draft Lottery is scheduled for May 10 in Chicago.
Nearly half of the NBA teams are shifting their focus to the 2026 NBA Draft after concluding their regular season.
The March Madness tournament showcased several collegiate players, helping to highlight their potential contributions to the NBA and influencing draft predictions.
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.