Not Dybantsa for No. 1? Wizards reportedly considering Peterson as Brunson and Wilson drop out of race

On June 19, Beijing time, per noted journalist Stein, although AJ Dybantsa is generally considered the frontrunner for the No. 1 pick in next week's draft, several draft specialists suggest the Wizards could pivot to Darin Peterson.

A well-connected source told Stein that the Washington Wizards are genuinely evaluating Peterson for the top pick. The Kansas freshman guard has been hampered throughout the season by hamstring injuries and muscle cramps, significantly affecting his performance. Before the injuries flared up, he had been the consensus top pick at the start of the season.

ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo and renowned reporter Shams recently reported that the Wizards have narrowed their No. 1 pick candidates to Dybantsa and Peterson. Stein has also confirmed from multiple sources that Cameron Brunson and Caleb Wilson have exited the competition for the top pick.

Stein also noted that the current buzz about the Wizards' interest in Peterson could simply be a decoy. He added that Jazz owner Ryan Smith is a Brigham Young University alumnus, and if Dybantsa falls to the second pick, the Jazz would likely be very pleased.

ESPN further reported that Peterson has conducted multiple workouts with the Wizards but declined a meeting invitation from the Jazz; Dybantsa has completed meetings with both the Wizards and the Jazz and will not hold any further discussions with other teams.

It is reported that the Jazz front office, holding the second pick, is internally torn and has yet to finalize their choice. Their decision will depend on which player the Wizards select, choosing among the remaining trio of Peterson, Dybantsa, and Brunson.