The Utah Jazz are in perhaps the most comfortable position compared to all other NBA teams when tomorrow's draft night happens. No matter who they take, they're adding a golden prospect to a playoff contender next season. As we've inched closer and closer to the draft, there has been some scuttlebutt about Darryn Peterson that have rubbed a few people the wrong way.
Many grew concerned when Peterson canceled his workout with the Jazz, though there have been mixed reports about whether it was because he didn't want to play for Utah or if he truly believes he's Washington-bound. Peterson himself clarified what was going on while talking with reporters.
Darryn Peterson on only working out for the Washington Wizards with the No. 1 pick: “Just a decision that was made. I’m definitely not dodging any team. Whoever takes me, I’m going to come in and be delighted to be there. Wherever that happens to be, they’ll get the best me.” pic.twitter.com/MObTY3XmxD
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 22, 2026
So if Peterson is available with the No. 2 pick, and there's a solid chance he might not, this should take a load off of any Jazz fan's mind. It more or less confirms that his questionable actions were not about any issues with playing in Utah.
Does that excuse them? No. PR-wise, it was probably in Peterson's best interest to do the workout even if he truly believes the Wizards are picking him to not cause any chaos. But even so, his words here confirm that there wouldn't be much risk if Utah picked him at No. 2.
This sounds very similar to the Ace Bailey draft situation last year
There was a lot of hoopla surrounding Bailey at this time last year because of how many workouts he canceled leading up to the draft. When Utah picked him, many believed it was the wrong decision because it was clear ahead of time that he wanted to play for Washington.
However, it didn't take long for the situation to get some clarity. Just because Bailey preferred playing for the Wizards didn't mean he had a problem playing for the Jazz. It's like the classic dumb Internet pancakes argument we've seen time and time again.
"I like pancakes."
"So you hate waffles?"
"No, I just like pancakes."
Bailey clearly had no issue with the metaphorical waffles that were given to him, and look where it's gotten both him and the Jazz. This isn't the exact same situation, as it sounds like Peterson more or less simply believes he will be a Wizard rather than preferring to play for them like Bailey did.
The read from this is that he would be welcome to play for the Jazz. He'd have good reason to now, as he'd be put on a winning team from the jump while also playing for a team willing to give him the time to develop.
Whether they take him or not, it's more proof that Utah has literally nothing to worry about tomorrow night.
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