Darryn Peterson Now in Line to Become Wizards Top Pick?

Just four days out from the Washington Wizards picking first overall, the debate between AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson intensifies. Last night, Peterson reportedly has picked up new momentum.

“Multiple draft experts have passed along that they legitimately believe Washington could select Kansas' Darryn Peterson over BYU's AJ Dybantsa with the No. 1 overall pick," NBA Insider Marc Stein writes. 

This report caps off a week that's been full of new momentum for Peterson potentially going first overall. On Monday, ESPN reported the former Kansas guard worked out with the Wizards multiple times, and elected to cap his pre-draft visits to just Washington. On the other hand, Dybantsa met with both Washington and Utah last week.

Whether or not all of this information serves as a smokescreen, Washington appears to be in a favorable spot, as it remains unclear who it'll draft on Tuesday. It's no surprise that Peterson is believed to be strongly in play first overall. KSL Sports' Jazz Insider Ben Anderson reported on Monday that Peterson had a workout scheduled with the Jazz, but elected to cancel it following his meeting with the Wizards.

Anderson suggests that decision reflects a shift at the top of the draft. 

"Having the number one pick is a big responsibility," Monumental Basketball president Michael Winger told JP Finlay in a one-on-one with NBC 4. "We have to get that pick right, and it's not just selecting the good player; it's selecting a good player who's also a great ambassador for Washington D.C."

In a draft where the top is believed to be one of the best in recent years, the Wizards are firmly in the driver's seat at first overall.  

Currently, FanDuel has Dybantsa -450 to go first overall, with Peterson listed at +300. The line has moved around a bit over the course of the week with the recent news.

The Wizards value grassroots scouting, which dives back into high school and beyond. NBA TV's Chris Miles joined Grant & Danny on Monday and he said that people within the EYBL Circuit have been contacted by the Wizards to check in on Peterson. That could just be part of the due diligence for both prospects, but it's something to keep note of.

Last year, Dawkins said grassroots scouting played an important role in selecting Will Riley out Illinois. At this point, nothing is certain. The Wizards can pick whichever prospect is their favorite.

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