Peyton Watson significantly increased his value during the 2025-26 season, emerging as one of the Denver Nuggets’ most productive players while taking on a larger role throughout the year.
In 54 games, Watson averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, establishing himself as an important contributor on both ends of the floor.
His strongest stretch came after Nikola Jokic suffered a knee injury in late December.
With Denver relying on other players to carry a greater offensive load, Watson responded by producing the best 17-game stretch of his career.
His momentum was interrupted in February when he suffered a hamstring strain, an injury that limited his effectiveness for the remainder of the regular season and into the playoffs.
Watson is represented by Rich Paul, whose clients have previously experienced lengthy restricted free agency negotiations.
Players such as Tristan Thompson and Eric Bledsoe both remained unsigned deep into the offseason before eventually reaching new contracts, suggesting Watson’s situation could follow a similar timeline if Denver and interested teams are unable to reach an agreement.
Hawks Interested In Peyton Watson https://t.co/Fy1gBOrvoJ
— RealGM (@RealGM) July 10, 2026
