Cavaliers predicted to miss out on Peyton Watson, sign $46M ex-Warriors NBA champion

The Cleveland Cavaliers have had quite the offseason, to say the least, as they look to add pieces after falling short in the Eastern Conference Finals last season. So far, the free-agency cycle has not been a major success for Cleveland.

For now, the Cavaliers’ main focus appears to be on a 23-year-old NBA champion. Peyton Watson has been Cleveland’s top target for the past few weeks.

“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," NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

Landing Watson would be a huge addition for Cleveland as the organization looks to add another young player who could become a long-term piece. James Harden has not re-signed yet, which could be part of the Cavaliers’ effort to preserve enough financial flexibility to add someone like Watson. It also appears Cleveland believes it is getting closer to a potential deal.

“The Nuggets and Cavaliers are deep in trade negotiations involving Peyton Watson,” Sidery posted.

While it remains unclear whether those discussions will ultimately lead to a deal, Cleveland does have a backup option. NBA insider Brett Siegel believes the Cavaliers will turn their attention to Jonathan Kuminga if they miss out on Watson.

“Cleveland is highly motivated to land one of Watson or Kuminga. Who knows? Maybe the Cavs end up with both if they move Max Strus and find other ways to save money. Should the Cavs swing and miss on a sign-and-trade for Watson, then Kuminga will be their obvious choice,” Siegel wrote.

Kuminga would be a strong alternative for Cleveland, even if the Cavaliers believe Watson has more upside. If Kuminga can continue to mature and develop his game, Cleveland could become more comfortable pursuing him as its next option.

Last season, Kuminga was on in a $46 million contract with the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks. Cleveland is in desperate need of a starting wing, so if the Cavaliers miss out on Watson, they could make a major push to bring Kuminga to Cleveland.

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