As of now, all eyes in free agency are on Jonathan Kuminga and Peyton Watson, as both remain sign-and-trade candidates. The Denver Nuggets are doing everything they can to keep Watson, but that outcome is looking increasingly unlikely
The Nuggets are in a very interesting position regarding their future. The financial situation they find themselves in is unprecedented in franchise history
“The Denver Nuggets were in a tough financial position before the offseason got underway, and by re-signing Spencer Jones to a two-year, $12 million deal, they slid into the second apron with a projected luxury tax penalty of $68 million, the highest in franchise history. However, this is all with two roster spots still to fill,” SI’s Logan Struck wrote
Watson and his camp are reportedly seeking a significant contract, somewhere in the range of $28 million annually
“Peyton Watson and his camp want something in that $28 million north range and the offers so far have been fluctuating between that $20-24 million per year range… When you’re Peyton Watson, you want more than Christian Braun,” ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel wrote
There now appear to be five teams involved in the race for Watson, with the Nuggets still attempting to work out a deal to retain him
“The Denver Nuggets remain interested in retaining restricted free agent forward Peyton Watson amid sign-and-trade interest from the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, and Los Angeles Clippers. Denver’s price tag in any sign-and-trade scenario has shifted to at least one first-round pick and one notable player, per multiple reports, and confirmed by HoopsHype,” HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto wrote
The Cavaliers are an interesting team to watch, as it appears they may have shifted their focus away from the Jonathan Kuminga sweepstakes. The Bucks also make sense as a suitor given the direction of their roster
Watson has earned $11 million throughout his career with the Nuggets. The Clippers and Hawks likely have the most to offer in a potential sign-and-trade package. Watson’s free agency is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch this offseason
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