By winning 12 consecutive games to end the 2025-26 regular season, the Denver Nuggets jumped up the Western Conference standings, but also hurt their draft position. Now, the Nuggets hold the 26th pick in this summer's 2026 NBA Draft. With plenty of uncertainty around the Nuggets' roster this offseason, the draft will give them a chance to find a legitimate, young difference-maker. Especially with standout wing Peyton Watson potentially leaving in restricted free agency , the Nuggets could even find his replacement. ESPN 's Jeremy Woo projects the Nuggets to select Texas Longhorns wing Dailyn Swain with the 26th pick, who could easily fit into Watson's role as a versatile and lengthy wing with two-way capabilities. Could Swain be Watson's replacement? Jan 17, 2026; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns guard Dailyn Swain (3) reacts to a referee call during the first half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Moody Center.…