A new mock draft from SB Nation projects the Milwaukee Bucks will secure Kansas guard Darryn Peterson with the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a hypothetical outcome that observers believe could accelerate the franchise’s timeline.
SB Nation analyst Ricky O’Donnell labeled Milwaukee “the big winner” of his lottery simulation, calling the potential draft result “league-changing” and contending it would give star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo “a real runway again.”
Peterson’s Upside Despite Injuries
Peterson’s freshman campaign at Kansas has been uneven due to a hamstring injury and recurring cramping issues, yet his production remains eye-catching. According to O’Donnell, the 6-foot-6 guard is averaging 43.5 points per 100 possessions on 62 percent true shooting, numbers that hint at significant scoring potential once he is fully healthy.
Before arriving on the national stage, Peterson began his high-school career at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy near Akron, Ohio, giving the scenario a regional connection for Milwaukee fans.
Milwaukee’s Uncertain Trajectory
The Bucks entered the All-Star break on a positive note and have seen improvements on the injury front, yet their long-term outlook remains heavily tied to draft-lottery fortune. Landing Peterson would pair a promising young guard with Antetokounmpo and recent addition Ryan Rollins, potentially easing the transition between the current core and future iterations of the roster.
For now, the scenario exists only on paper, but for a team balanced between immediate contention and looming roster questions, a favorable bounce of the ping-pong balls could prove decisive.
Source: Hoops Wire
