Clippers target Wagler at no. 5

The Los Angeles Clippers are increasingly linked to Illinois standout Keaton Wagler with the fifth pick of the 2026 NBA Draft. Following the lottery, reports from Evan Sidery highlighted the franchise’s growing interest, while Zach Lowe noted strong buzz around a potential match. With Washington, Utah, Memphis and Chicago expected to select the four top‑tier prospects, AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson, the Clippers are positioned to choose the best talent available immediately after that group.

Wagler enters the draft with a profile built on offensive efficiency and poised playmaking. As a freshman, he averaged 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 4.2 assists on 44.5 percent shooting and 39.7 percent from three across 37 games. His blend of on‑ball creativity and off‑ball utility fits a roster already featuring Darius Garland and multiple playmaking wings. With veteran depth and frontcourt stability, the No. 5 pick offers both long‑term upside and immediate rotational value.