Hawks Face Growing Peyton Watson Competition From Clippers, Bucks

Reports indicate that the Los Angeles Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks are considered the "most credible" external suitors for Denver Nuggets forward Peyton Watson, which could make the Atlanta Hawks' path to acquiring him more difficult.

The Hawks had been linked to Watson, but his reported $28 million asking price could be expensive for the franchise in a sign-and-trade deal. NBA correspondent Marc Stein reported on Aug. 11 that the Clippers and Bucks are the "most credible" external suitors for Watson.

While Atlanta could still acquire the Denver forward, Los Angeles and Milwaukee may have more financial flexibility to make a deal work.

The Nuggets are in a stalemate with Watson, who is currently a restricted free agent. Denver can match any offer sheet Watson signs.

The Nuggets currently have an offer out for the forward at four years and $70 million, with a team option in the fourth season, but he believes he is worth more money. Watson may have a case, considering guard Christian Braun signed a five-year deal with the Nuggets worth $125 million.

Braun finished the 2025-26 season averaging 12.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while shooting 51.9% from the floor and 30.1% from 3-point range. On the other hand, Watson averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 49.1% from the field and 41.1% from three.

Braun started 44 games compared to Watson's 40. While the UCLA product would provide Atlanta with depth, versatility, and two-way play, his asking price could conflict with the organization's long-term financial goals.

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported that acquiring Watson may be difficult for both the Hawks and Bucks as they attempt to stay below the luxury tax line. Teams that go over the tax have to pay additional penalties, which can limit flexibility to adjust the roster later in the season.

The mantra for Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh has been building organically and making wise additions. Before the 2026 NBA Draft, he said the franchise was focused on building the roster organically.

The franchise also still needs to decide whether it is going to extend Luguentz Dort and for how much.

Last season, Atlanta made the postseason, where it lost to the now-NBA champion New York Knicks. The Hawks will enter the 2026-27 season with more experience under their belt and expectations to advance to the second round of the postseason.

Right now, if the season started today, the starting lineup could consist of CJ McCollum, Nickeil Alexander-Walker or Dyson Daniels, Dort, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu.

The second rotation could feature Kingston Flemings or Ryan Nembhard, Aaron Wiggins, Dort, Corey Kispert, and Jock Landale.