Since the Utah Jazz landed the No. 2 pick, the consensus choice in most mock drafts has been Darryn Peterson. Peterson isn't the perfect prospect, but his potential is so tantalizing that it'd be hard to pass on him if the chance presents itself. In fact, what might convince the Jazz is Peterson's pro comp: Dwyane Wade.
DraftExpress' Jonathan Givony recently compared Peterson to Wade.
Darryn Peterson's closest physical comp in the DX database: 21-year old Dwyane Wade coming out of Marquette.
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 12, 2026
Little taller, comparable frame, near-identical length and reach. Peterson has time to add bulk at 19. pic.twitter.com/xO6nB8LeMD
Besides the fact that Wade has a clear role in the Jazz organization, this would make Peterson an exciting get for Utah because Wade wasn't just a great, but it took him very little time to assert himself among the NBA's best players. He won a title in his third NBA season, thus establishing himself as one of the league's very best for the next several years.
If Peterson follows a similar track, Utah would be locked and loaded for the next several years. Wade wasn't necessarily a star on Day 1, but he was one of Miami's best players by the end of his rookie year that they were comfortable going after Shaq the following summer.
No pro comps are always perfect, but a team like the Jazz needs a guard more than anything else, co getting one with the potential to be an NBA all-timer like Wade wouldn't just be a fantastic get, but it would also be the last piece of the title puzzle for the Jazz.
If Peterson is Wade 2.0, the Jazz's defense is set
Many remember Wade for the generational athlete and scorer he was. What many have forgotten is that Wade was one of the league's best defensive guards of his generation, having made three All-Defense teams in his prime.
Utah already has all the offensive firepower in the world, no matter who they pick, so what they should be on the lookout for is two-way players. Peterson would give that to them. We haven't seen Jaren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler take the floor yet, but we know how good they will be together.
But the rest of the roster has to commit to have a defensive identity, and Peterson can contribute to that. Wade also made the All-Defense teams during his younger days, so if Peterson follows a similar track, he should be exactly what Utah wants on that end.
It's not even a guarantee that Peterson will be there at No. 2, but whether he is or isn't, the Jazz are beyond fortunate to have a top pick in a loaded draft class. If Peterson is right there for them to take, it's hard to argue who would fit better, even if he winds up not being the best talent.
Add us as a preferred source on Google