Nuggets predicted to trade Peyton Watson for Clippers' $48M defensive pest and 10-year veteran

The Denver Nuggets are still trying to determine exactly what they want to do with their financial flexibility as the offseason continues. However, time is running out with training camp approaching and the summer nearing its conclusion.

The Nuggets are built around veterans Aaron Gordon, Nikola Jokic, and Jamal Murray. The problem is that their current financial situation has made it extremely difficult for them to add more talent to the roster.

“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.

Young forward Peyton Watson is a restricted free agent, but Denver has been unable to meet his contract expectations. Because of that, multiple teams have explored the possibility of acquiring Watson through a sign-and-trade.

“The Nuggets are in active sign-and-trade discussions with the Bucks, Cavaliers and Clippers on Peyton Watson, per Shams Charania. If Denver doesn’t deal Watson, taking the qualifying offer to become an unrestricted free agent in 2027 appears likely due to failed negotiations,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

The Clippers are one team that could offer an intriguing package for Watson. Sidery believes a potential deal sending Watson and Zeke Nnaji to Los Angeles could bring Derrick Jones Jr., Kris Dunn, and draft compensation back to Denver.

“A potential sign-and-trade package between the Nuggets and Clippers involving Peyton Watson: Denver: Derrick Jones Jr. + Kris Dunn + draft compensation. LA: Watson + Zeke Nnaji,” Sidery wrote.

The Nuggets have also been looking to move Nnaji’s contract as they attempt to create more financial flexibility. A move to Los Angeles would give Watson an opportunity to take on a larger role and showcase his abilities on a bigger stage, which is exactly what he is looking for.

Jones has earned $48 million throughout his NBA career. This potential trade is about as balanced as it gets, as it would give Denver more depth while adding an elite perimeter defender in Jones. For Watson, joining the Clippers would provide him with an opportunity to thrive in a system where he could potentially become one of the team’s primary offensive options.

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