Cavaliers reportedly favorites to sign $11M ex-Nuggets NBA champion, pass on Jonathan Kuminga

The Cleveland Cavaliers have shown significant interest in Jonathan Kuminga ever since LeBron James announced his decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, the process has not gone smoothly, as Kuminga's contract demands have complicated negotiations.

Cleveland is no longer certain it is the favorite to land Kuminga. As a result, the Cavaliers have also explored a potential sign-and-trade for NBA champion Peyton Watson.

“The Cavaliers are now showing sign-and-trade interest in Peyton Watson, per Ramona Shelburne. James Harden remains unsigned, which allows Cleveland flexibility to add a starting wing like Watson or Jonathan Kuminga," NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

Watson is seeking an even larger annual salary than Kuminga, but he also offers tremendous upside. The Cavaliers are in desperate need of a starting-caliber wing, and Watson is reportedly looking for around $28 million per season.

“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.

The good news for Cleveland is that Denver finds itself in a difficult financial situation, making it challenging to retain Watson. As things currently stand, the Cavaliers are viewed as one of the favorites to complete a sign-and-trade for the former NBA champion.

“The Bucks and Cavaliers are viewed as the current favorites to acquire Peyton Watson via sign-and-trade. The Nuggets want to keep Watson, but a large gulf in annual salary demands remain. Denver is the only team over the second apron threshold for next season,” Sidery wrote.

Watson has also established himself as an outstanding defender who can match up against some of the league's top players. While the Nuggets would like to keep the 23-year-old forward, their financial situation could ultimately force their hand. If Cleveland continues to gain momentum in its pursuit of Watson, the organization may begin shifting its focus away from Kuminga.

Watson has earned $11 million throughout his young NBA career. He would provide an immediate boost to a Cavaliers team looking to establish itself as a legitimate championship contender. Adding a versatile two-way wing remains one of Cleveland's biggest priorities, and Watson fits that need well.

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