Purdue Boilermakers senior Braden Smith is generating attention as one of the top point guards in the 2026 class, known for his elite playmaking abilities and exceptional ball-handling skills. Standing at 6 feet tall, he is considered somewhat undersized for the position, which could influence where he is selected, possibly landing him in the late 30s or early 40s of the draft. Despite his stature, Smith’s impressive court vision and high basketball IQ make him a valuable asset for teams seeking a skilled backup point guard.
Chicago Bulls See Potential in Smith to Bolster Their Backcourt
The Chicago Bulls, who currently boast a guard-heavy lineup including Josh Giddey, lack a pure point guard who excels primarily as a playmaker. Smith is viewed as a solution to this gap, bringing quality ball-handling and court awareness off the bench. His capability to find open teammates and initiate transition plays could provide the Bulls with essential depth, positioning him as a reliable backup to Giddey.
Washington Wizards Could Use Smith as a Backup and Future Starter
The Washington Wizards are also considered likely candidates to draft Smith due to their need for a true point guard. While Carlton “Bub” Carrington currently starts, he is not seen as a pure point guard. Initially, Smith might serve as Carrington’s backup, but his skill set suggests he has the potential to eventually become the team’s starting point guard, filling a crucial role in the Wizards’ backcourt.
Utah Jazz Seek Playmaking Support Amid Injury Challenges
The Utah Jazz have experienced difficulties with their point guard position, especially following injuries to key players like Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen. Facing an 18-39 record, the team needs dependable ball-handling support. Smith could offer valuable depth as a backup playmaker, helping the Jazz stabilize their backcourt during this challenging period.
Charlotte Hornets Eye Smith as Backup to LaMelo Ball
The Charlotte Hornets might consider Smith for their roster to provide needed backup support for LaMelo Ball, particularly with key reserves like Coby White sidelined by injury. As the Hornets prepare for the upcoming season, drafting a pure point guard such as Smith could present a viable option to strengthen their depth at this critical position.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Backcourt Injury Concerns Make Smith a Consideration
The Memphis Grizzlies are currently facing backcourt difficulties, worsened by the absence of Ja Morant due to a shoulder injury. With rumors circulating about the team possibly moving on from Morant, Smith emerges as an attractive candidate for a rebuilding effort. His playmaking proficiency and court vision could help fill gaps and provide a foundation for the team’s future backcourt rotation.
Implications of Smith’s Potential NBA Landing Spot
Braden Smith’s combination of ball-handling, passing skills, and basketball IQ positions him as a promising asset for NBA teams needing depth at point guard. Though his size might cause some uncertainty in draft placement, his ability to contribute as a backup playmaker enhances his value. For the Chicago Bulls and others like the Wizards, Jazz, Hornets, and Grizzlies, adding Smith could address immediate backcourt needs while offering long-term potential.
