Former Jazz All‑Star Carlos Boozer praises the Jazz’s No. 2 pick while still dreaming his son could wear a Utah uniform.
Key points
- Carlos Boozer believes Darryn Peterson fits Utah’s roster better than his son Cameron, despite personal hopes for a family reunion.
- Both rookies showed early promise in a close matchup, but their shooting struggles highlight the typical growing‑pain of first‑year players.
- Boozer stresses that defensive versatility and the ability to win games will separate the class’s future stars from the rest.
Carlos Boozer, a former Jazz All‑Star turned scout, says the 2026 NBA draft class is “supremely talented” and that guard Darryn Peterson is a perfect fit for Utah’s roster, even as he quietly hopes his own son, Cameron Boozer, might have joined the Jazz.
Peterson and Cameron Boozer, selected back‑to‑back at No. 2 and No. 3 overall, faced each other in Utah’s 110‑105 loss to Memphis on Oct. 26. Peterson finished with 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists, while Cameron posted 13 points, seven rebounds and four assists, each shooting poorly but showcasing the rivalry that has captured fans’ imagination.
Rookie rivalry on the court
Boozer, who recused himself from the Jazz’s draft process but provided notes to the front office, told the Salt Lake Tribune he “was hoping in my heart that Cam could come play in Utah.” He later explained that Utah’s front‑court depth—Jaren Jackson, Lauri Markkanen, Kyle Filipowski and a possible return from Walker Kessler—made Cameron a better fit for Memphis, where size was needed.
Despite his hopes, Boozer praised his son’s consistency, basketball IQ and leadership, calling Cameron “the highest IQ in the class” and noting his ability to score, pass, defend and galvanize teammates. He also highlighted Peterson’s defensive effort, pointing out the rookie guard’s willingness to contest a bigger opponent in the paint.
Boozer’s take on the draft
Looking at the broader draft, Boozer said the class will be remembered for its “healthy competition” and that the ultimate measure of a player will be how they help their team win, not just raw statistics. He recalled his own 2002 draft experience, where he turned a mid‑round pick into an All‑Rookie and All‑Star, underscoring the importance of all‑around play.
For Jazz fans, Boozer’s message is clear: watch Peterson develop within a veteran‑laden lineup, and keep an eye on the evolving rivalry with the Grizzlies as both rookies grow. The 2026 draft, he believes, will stay memorable as long as its players translate talent into victories.
Reader questions
Who are Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer?
Peterson was the No. 2 overall pick by the Utah Jazz and Cameron Boozer was the No. 3 pick by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2026 NBA draft.
Why does Carlos Boozer think his son fits better in Memphis?
Boozer said Utah already has ample size in the front court, making Cameron a better positional fit for Memphis, which needed a player of his size.
What does Boozer say will determine the best player in the 2026 class?
He says the player who helps his team win games, not just puts up big numbers, will be considered the class’s top talent.
Source: sltrib.com
