The Cleveland Cavaliers have been pursuing Jonathan Kuminga for quite some time, dating back to early July. However, a deal has yet to come to fruition for several reasons
The Golden State Warriors have made negotiations difficult, and Kuminga has reportedly been seeking a higher salary than some interested teams are able to offer
“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote
With a deal for Kuminga still unresolved, the Cavaliers have begun exploring other options on the wing. Cleveland has also contacted the Denver Nuggets about a potential sign-and-trade involving restricted free agent Peyton Watson
“Meanwhile, the Cavaliers have recently called to express interest in a sign-and-trade for Denver Nuggets restricted free-agent forward Peyton Watson, league
Cleveland is looking to add a young, impact wing to its roster, and Watson fits that description. The 23-year-old has continued to develop into an exciting 3-and-D player, and the Cavaliers are now reportedly prioritizing him over Kuminga
“The Cavaliers appear to be prioritizing Peyton Watson now over Jonathan Kuminga as their Plan B wing option after missing out on LeBron James. Cleveland would offer Max Strus or Dennis Schröder alongside a future swap. The Nuggets remain in a serious bind due to apron issues,” Sidery wrote
Adding Watson would be a significant move for Cleveland. His athleticism and defensive versatility would strengthen the Cavaliers on the perimeter, and he could continue developing alongside stars Donovan Mitchell and James Harden
Watson has earned roughly $11 million during his NBA career and is expected to command a much larger contract on his next deal. While he continues to weigh his options, the Cavaliers appear to be going all-in on making him a priority
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