Nuggets weigh rising cost of Peyton Watson as Jokic targets return
nuggets-weigh-rising-cost-of-peyton-watson-as-jokic-targets-return
Fourth-year forward Peyton Watson is strengthening his case for a lucrative restricted-free-agent offer sheet this summer, a development that could push the Denver Nuggets beyond the NBA’s second tax apron.
The Nuggets prioritized a rookie-scale extension for Christian Braun before this season rather than a new deal for Watson, The Denver Post reported. That choice gave Braun long-term security but reduced Denver’s financial flexibility to match any offer Watson might receive in July 2026. League observers now believe the club may need to consider a sign-and-trade to keep from exceeding the most punitive tax level.
Watson thriving without Jokic
With Nikola Jokic sidelined by a hyperextended left knee, Watson has averaged 24.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.0 block while shooting 51.8 percent from the field and 41.4 percent from three over the past five games.
Braun details ankle setback
Braun, 24, missed seven weeks earlier this season after tearing ligaments in his left ankle. “I was in a boot for the first three weeks … on crutches for a couple weeks,” he told The Denver Post, adding that he is still regaining strength.
Jokic’s status
Interim head coach David Adelman said Friday in Atlanta that Jokic is eager to return but has mostly been limited to weight-room work. “This is not somebody that’s sitting out. He never sits out,” Adelman said.
Roster, tax considerations
Despite multi-week injuries to Jokic and Jonas Valančiūnas (calf strain), Denver is unlikely to sign a 10-day replacement center. Team sources told The Denver Post the front office has two goals before the trade deadline: drop roughly $400,000 to move below the luxury-tax line and convert two-way forward Spencer Jones to a standard contract.
Source: HoopsRumors
