The NBA’s Loaded Rookie Class for 2026-27

The NBA is gearing up for the 2026-27 season with a rookie class that’s brimming with talent. At the forefront are players like A.J. Dybantsa from Washington, Utah’s Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer from Memphis, and Chicago’s Caleb Wilson, forming what might be one of the most impressive top-four drafts in recent history. But, that’s just the beginning of the fresh talent entering the league.

This rookie class has already showcased their skills during the Las Vegas Summer League, and they’re continuing to impress in the preseason. It’s tough to mention everyone, so I won’t be listing honorable mentions like Spurs guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie, Pistons guard Ebuka Okorie, Mavericks guard Sergio de Larrea, or Milwaukee’s Brayden Burries. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing Brooklyn’s Mikal Brown and Toronto’s Allen Graves, who have yet to hit the court in preseason.

For those interested, we have a rundown of standout non-rookie players in the NBA as well. Here’s a take on the rookies who’ve stood out during the preseason, based on their performances rather than how we’d rank their potential moving forward. My complete opinions on this rookie class can be found in my final draft board.

9. Darius Acuff, G, Sacramento Kings

Acuff has demonstrated an ability to score in bursts, although he’s also had his fair share of turnovers and some questionable shot selections—so much so that even Draymond Green remarked on his ball movement. However, what’s really exciting about Acuff is his three-point shooting; despite some concerns about his shooting under pressure from last season at Arkansas, he’s hitting 41% of his threes so far in preseason. While he can sometimes seem like a masterful scorer, a deeper analysis will be necessary to truly gauge his shot selection and defensive impact. I find myself hoping he succeeds, especially since Kings fans are looking for something to cling to. He has the potential to be a strong rookie, maybe not as transcendent as some of his most ardent supporters claim, but he’s definitely on the right path as his surroundings improve.

8. Kingston Flemings, G, Atlanta Hawks

Flemings might not reach Acuff’s scoring heights or deliver the highlight reel moments like Mikal Brown, but he does appear to be the most well-rounded point guard among the rookies. He plays with a tenacity that allows him to defend bigger players, makes smart decisions with the ball, and while his three-point shot is still developing, his mid-range game is quite effective. Throughout the preseason, he’s averaged a commendable 3:1 assist-to-turnover ratio and has shown impressive defensive skills. Sure, there’s skepticism around smaller guards who struggle with three-point shooting, yet Flemings offers a lot of positive attributes without too many concerns. The Hawks already have a crowded backcourt, but I believe Flemings will anchor himself well under C.J. McCollum’s guidance when given the chance.

7. Bennett Stirtz, G, Oklahoma City Thunder

Stirtz has found himself in an ideal situation with the Thunder, who can largely mask his defensive shortcomings while benefiting from his skills in playmaking and shooting. His preseason performance has been stellar, showing versatility both on and off the ball. He’s great at shooting, adept with pick-and-rolls, and has a solid basketball IQ, qualities that make him a valuable asset, even if he’s on the weaker side defensively. He feels like the kind of player who can really help the Thunder’s offense flow when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is resting.

6. A.J. Dybantsa, F, Washington Wizards

While Dybantsa’s preseason experience has been somewhat variable, his talent is not in question. It’s nice to see him getting to the free-throw line and showing defensive effort, plus he has made some impressive passes. On the flip side, his three-point shooting seems a bit unstable, and there are moments when his shot selection should really prioritize attacking the rim. He himself acknowledged that his defense was “lazy” in college, so it’s promising to see him starting to utilize his physical tools effectively. Personally, I’d prefer to see the ball in his hands more than even in Trae Young’s, but Young’s style places a lot of expectation on Dybantsa to improve his shooting consistency. There are high hopes for Dybantsa, both this season and beyond, but he does have aspects of his game that still need refinement.

5. Caleb Wilson, F, Chicago Bulls

The Bulls are attempting to transition Wilson from primarily finishing plays to becoming a playmaker, which has naturally come with some early challenges. He appears to benefit from a structured approach, showing promise as a pick-and-roll player and displaying an improved three-point shot. However, he’s struggled in isolation against NBA-caliber defenders, having nearly twice as many turnovers as assists early in the preseason. On a bright note, he does look ready to shoot effectively from deep, especially given his previous struggles in college. The Bulls seem to not have immediate championship aspirations, which could provide Wilson with the freedom to explore and expand his offensive skill set—a good opportunity for his long-term growth. Even though he’s a work in progress, I anticipate some incredible highlights during his rookie year.

4. Darryn Peterson, G, Utah Jazz

Peterson’s preseason has seen him bounce back from a rocky start to deliver a strong second performance, suggesting his capabilities lie somewhere between those extremes. As the second overall pick, he brings a challenge for defenders with his ability to shoot from virtually anywhere, yet he’s occasionally hindered by his own propensity to over-rely on tough shots instead of finding easier opportunities. It would be nice to see him attack the rim more, which might come with time. The Jazz are looking for a point guard who can defend next to Keyonte George this season, and that’s where Peterson could shine the most. His intriguing mixture of shooting touch and defensive prowess holds promise, though I still find myself questioning whether he’s indeed the all-world guard prospect we anticipated back during his Prolific Prep days. Maybe I just need to take a breath, considering I ranked him second on my draft board.

3. Cameron Boozer, F, Memphis Grizzlies

Boozer, the youngest player in the league this season, plays with a maturity that belies his age. At just 19, he has an impressive offensive skill set, blending remarkable strength, sharp shooting, and excellent driving ability for versatile scoring. Although not flashy—though there was a highlight dunk to note—he consistently chooses the right play, managing to pressure defenses while adeptly finding open teammates when double-teamed. He was clearly the top prospect in the draft, so it’s surprising he ended up at No. 3. If the Grizzlies can stay healthy around Boozer, they’re poised to surpass expectations this season.

2. Aday Mara, C, Oklahoma City Thunder

Mara has dominated during the preseason, and it’s quite something for the Thunder to integrate a 7’3” player of his skill level. He seems to have improved his conditioning since college and looks noticeably more agile. His ability to protect the rim—thanks to his impressive 9’9” standing reach—is complemented by an evolving scoring ability, showcased by his incredible 79% true shooting, largely due to dunks and smooth post spins. While it might be wise for him to start in a smaller role this season, he has the potential to be very effective in favorable matchups, which will be crucial for the impressive Thunder lineup.

1. Yaxel Lendeborg, F, Golden State Warriors

There were whispers that the Warriors would have picked Brayden Burries had he still been on the board, but they should consider themselves fortunate he went one spot ahead. Lendeborg seems like an ideal fit for this Warriors team, now and in the future. Although he’s already 24, he has all the makings of a perfect role player. He’s a notable 6’9”, 240 pounds, with a wingspan of 7’3”. Lendeborg is an impressive athlete for a player of his stature, effectively using his size and skill on both ends of the court. He’s adept at hitting catch-and-shoot threes, rebounding well, running the fast break, and displaying unselfishness in making plays. His blend of physicality and skill is something special, only matched by Boozer, who is nearly five years younger. I really believe Lendeborg will seamlessly integrate into the Golden State team and continue to do so as the franchise transitions beyond the Curry-Green era.