The projected top pick breaks down how body control and mid-range mastery mirror the OKC superstar, signaling a dominant comeback after overcoming health hurdles at Kansas.
Darryn Peterson Compares His Game to NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at Draft Combine
Former Kansas Jayhawks star Darryn Peterson believes his game mirrors one of the NBA’s biggest superstars.
During an appearance on SportsCenter at the NBA Draft Combine, Peterson compared his play style to reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“I think two big guards,” Peterson said. “Two guards that use their body to score well, and I would say unguardable.”
The comparison is not as far-fetched as it may initially sound. Like Gilgeous-Alexander, Peterson thrives using size, pace, and body control to create space and finish around the rim. Both guards also rely heavily on mid-range scoring and shot creation rather than pure explosiveness.
Peterson measured similarly to SGA at the combine and has continued drawing praise from scouts for his scoring instincts and ability to generate offense at all three levels.
The former Kansas standout is currently projected as a top-two pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, though many evaluators still believe he possesses No. 1 overall talent despite an injury-plagued freshman season.
Peterson averaged 20.2 points per game at Kansas while battling severe cramping issues that frequently limited his minutes and availability. He recently revealed the problem stemmed from unsafe creatine levels and says he now feels fully healthy again.
With strong combine performances and growing confidence heading into draft season, Peterson is continuing to strengthen his case as one of the premier players in the 2026 class.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
Seattle Seahawks Land Steal with Emmanuel Henderson Jr.
The Seattle Seahawks might have just found a gem. Emmanuel Henderson Jr. is officially off the board, and for where he was taken, this feels like a steal. He was one of the few bright spots for Kansas last season, finishing with 766 receiving yards and five touchdowns while also making an impact in the return game. The upside is easy to see.
Henderson’s speed jumps out immediately. He can stretch the field, create big plays, and flip momentum as a returner. That 214 yard, two touchdown game against Cincinnati showed exactly what he can be when everything clicks.
He is not a finished product, but late in the draft, that is what you are betting on. Traits and ceiling.
Seattle gets a player who can contribute on special teams right away and develop into more in the offense. If he puts it together, this could end up being one of the better value picks from this class. Low risk, high upside. That is a win.