With the 2026 NBA draft less than a week away, the Dallas Mavericks continue preparations amid uncertainty surrounding their coaching situation. Despite not having a head coach in place, the team has been actively engaging with prospects at their Dallas facilities ahead of a critical offseason event. Executives Masai Ujiri and Mike Schmitz approach their first joint draft holding three selections, including a prized No. 9 pick.

At the top of the mock draft stands a contest between BYU freshman forward AJ Dybantsa and Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, both viewed as potential No. 1 overall selections. The Washington Wizards, holding the first pick, could benefit from Dybantsa’s scoring ability and versatile athleticism, which would complement veteran Anthony Davis if he remains in Washington’s long-term plans. Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz at No. 2 might opt for Peterson, who fits an urgent positional need in the backcourt. Known for his scoring and desire to run the point, Peterson could be a cornerstone for Utah’s rebuilding efforts.

Memphis, holding the third pick, is projected to select Duke forward/center Cameron Boozer. At 6-foot-8, Boozer’s fundamental skills and post-scoring ability may assist the Grizzlies in building a youthful core alongside 7-foot center Zach Edey. The Chicago Bulls, with the fourth pick, could add North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson, noted for his athleticism and upside, which aligns with new leadership under vice president Bryson Graham and incoming coach Tiago Splitter.

With the fifth pick, the Los Angeles Clippers face a choice that could impact their short-term competitiveness alongside Kawhi Leonard. Illinois guard Keaton Wagler is seen as a candidate who offers versatility and shooting, poised to complement the team’s backcourt. At No. 6, the Brooklyn Nets may look to Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr., who could step into a starting point guard role immediately given his scoring talent.

Louisville’s Mikel Brown Jr. is projected to be selected seventh by the Sacramento Kings, a team in search of a point guard to build around. Brown’s reported positive workouts and recovery from a back injury bolster his draft stock. The eighth pick could belong to the Atlanta Hawks, who might target Houston guard Kingston Flemings for his explosiveness and fit alongside players like Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

The Mavericks’ own selection at No. 9 appears likely to be spent on Arizona guard Brayden Burries, especially with Brown already taken. Burries, described as a combo guard capable of impacting the game in multiple ways, met with Dallas personnel at the draft combine and seemed interested in joining the franchise. His ability to play both on and off the ball could make him a versatile addition as the team looks to shape its next core.

Beyond these highlighted selections, the draft features prospects expected to fill needs for teams across the league, with several potential contributors projected in later picks that could influence the NBA landscape in the coming years. As the draft approaches, the Mavericks and other franchises face crucial decisions shaping their futures amid a dynamic offseason.