Every NBA Draft produces a handful of players who outperform expectations, and the 2026 class appears to have several candidates capable of following that path.
While highly touted prospects such as AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson are expected to dominate draft conversations, NBA teams are also searching for players who can provide long-term value beyond the lottery selections. History has shown that stars can emerge from unexpected places, with players like Tyrese Maxey, Jimmy Butler and Rudy Gobert all significantly exceeding their draft positions.
Here are five prospects who could become some of the biggest steals of the 2026 NBA Draft.
### Jayden Quaintance: High Risk, High Reward
Jayden Quaintance remains one of the most intriguing talents in the class. Despite entering his sophomore season, he is among the youngest draft-eligible players after accelerating his development path through reclassification.
The former Arizona State standout displayed flashes of elite potential as an athletic big man capable of defending multiple positions and stretching the floor offensively. However, an ACL injury has created uncertainty around his draft stock.
Teams may approach his medical evaluations cautiously, but franchises willing to invest in his recovery could be rewarded with one of the highest-upside players available outside the top selections.
Source: Metro Philadelphia
### Christian Anderson: A Complete Backcourt Contributor
Christian Anderson quickly established himself as one of college basketball's most productive young guards. His breakout debut for Texas Tech featured 34 points, 11 assists, seven rebounds and four steals, highlighting the all-around skill set that has attracted NBA attention.
Beyond his scoring ability, Anderson is known for creating opportunities for teammates and applying pressure on opposing defenses. Averaging 7.4 assists per game, he has shown the playmaking instincts and competitiveness that teams value in modern lead guards.
His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor could make him one of the more underrated prospects in the draft.
### Cameron Carr: Rising Fast After Strong Combine Showing
Few players improved their stock more than Cameron Carr during the NBA Draft Combine. The Baylor wing impressed evaluators with his scoring ability, athleticism and shooting consistency.
Standing 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot wingspan, Carr possesses the physical profile NBA teams seek in versatile perimeter players. He showcased his offensive potential during combine scrimmages and backed it up with an impressive collegiate season, averaging 18.9 points and 5.8 rebounds while shooting 43 percent from three-point range.
His combination of size, shooting and athleticism could make him one of the fastest risers on draft boards.
### Dailyn Swain: The Modern NBA Wing
Dailyn Swain's development accelerated after transferring to Texas, where he emerged as one of the SEC's most versatile players.
At 6-foot-7 with nearly a 7-foot wingspan, Swain offers the defensive flexibility and playmaking ability teams increasingly prioritize. He was particularly effective as a passer during the NCAA Tournament, recording 21 assists across four games against elite competition.
Although his perimeter shooting remains a work in progress, his physical tools, defensive upside and offensive versatility suggest he has the potential to develop into a valuable two-way wing at the next level.
Source: Bleacher Report
### Bennett Stirtz: Experience and Reliability
Bennett Stirtz may not possess the same athletic upside as some of his peers, but his consistency and basketball intelligence make him a compelling prospect.
After progressing from Division II basketball to Drake and later Iowa, Stirtz established himself as a dependable floor general. His postseason performances highlighted his ability to control games, averaging 18.3 points while maintaining exceptional ball security.
Perhaps most impressively, he averaged fewer than one turnover per game during NCAA Tournament play despite carrying a significant workload. At 6-foot-4, his composure, decision-making and passing ability have drawn comparisons to veteran NBA point guards.
As teams search for value throughout the draft, Stirtz's experience and reliability could make him one of the safest selections available.
While the spotlight remains on the projected top picks, these five prospects possess the talent and potential to outperform expectations. If their development continues on its current trajectory, they could become some of the defining success stories of the 2026 NBA Draft class.
