Peyton Watson close to rejoining Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets expect guard Peyton Watson to end his month-long absence caused by a right hamstring strain suffered on February 4. According to the Denver Gazette, the 23-year-old was ruled out for Tuesday’s home game against Philadelphia and is not expected to play Wednesday in Memphis, but Friday’s matchup with Toronto is viewed as a realistic return date. Barring call-ups from the Grand Rapids Gold, Watson is the only player remaining on Denver’s injury report. He becomes eligible for restricted free agency this summer.
Grizzlies sale or relocation rumors dismissed
FedEx executive Richard Smith told the Memphis Commercial Appeal that an advisory firm he hired found no indication Grizzlies majority owner Robert Pera intends to sell or move the franchise. Smith said his family would have considered purchasing the team to keep it in Memphis if Pera had sought a sale. The club and the city continue negotiations on a lease extension at FedExForum; the current deal expires after the 2028-29 season.
Ishbia may raise Suns stake to 96%
Binding mediation in a legal dispute between Phoenix Suns governor Mat Ishbia and minority shareholders Scott Seldin and Andy Kohlberg could result in Ishbia buying their approximately 13% holding, ESPN reported. A purchase would boost Ishbia’s control of the franchise to roughly 96%. Seldin and Kohlberg are the last remaining partners from the Robert Sarver era.
Keldon Johnson flourishing off the bench
After three seasons as a full-time starter, San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson has embraced a sixth-man role in 2023-24. The 24-year-old is averaging 12.7 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 52.9% from the field, 37.7% from three and 78.9% from the line—numbers that have put him in the conversation for Sixth Man of the Year. “When you want to win, you have to remove your ego,” Johnson said, adding that maximizing his bench role benefits the team.
Source: Hoops Rumors
