What's next for 10 lottery-bound teams ahead of the NBA draft? - ESPN

ESPN

by NBA Insiders

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The NBA's lottery-bound teams are entering a crucial phase as they prepare for the 2026 draft, aiming to rebuild their rosters after disappointing seasons. With just over a month until the lottery, teams like the Sacramento Kings, Washington Wizards, and Indiana Pacers are focusing on how best to use their high draft picks and offseason strategies to turn things around. The Kings, currently projected for the No. 1 pick, are prioritizing long-term upside as they rebuild with youth, despite financial challenges. Meanwhile, the Wizards face uncertainty with key players like Trae Young and Anthony Davis sidelined, which may influence their draft approach. The Kings have endured a tough season marked by injuries to high-paid veterans, including Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and De'Andre Hunter, who are all out for the year. This has forced Sacramento into a youth movement, with their focus shifting to developing young talent and potentially trading aging stars like Sabonis and LaVine. Financial constraints also loom, as the team is over the luxury tax threshold due to recent trades and a high lottery pick. The Kings aim to balance youth development with financial flexibility to avoid future issues. The Wizards, projected for a top-three pick, are navigating their own challenges. Trae Young's absence since December due to an MCL sprain has left the team without its playmaking core. Anthony Davis, acquired in a midseason trade, is also sidelined as he recovers from ligament damage in his hand. These absences have complicated Washington's approach, particularly regarding whether to target a point guard in the draft or focus on other

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/24/2026