As Denver’s athletic wing enters the trade market, Brooklyn emerges as a prime suitor to leverage cap space for the breakout star’s versatile, All-Star potential.
As players continue to find their new homes during the NBA Free Agency Period, the available talents on the open market get slimmer and slimmer.
However, there are still options for the Brooklyn Nets if they look to cash in on their remaining cap space.
Denver Nuggets forward Peyton Watson is one potential addition that would provide Brooklyn with the length and athleticism on the perimeter that is currently lacking, as the 6-foot-8 wing posted career-highs in scoring (14.6), rebounding (4.9), and assists (2.1).
Watson and the Nuggets have not made any substantial progress on a deal, and have reportedly become open to potential sign-and-trade scenarios, according to The Athletic's Sam Amick.
Among the potential suitors listed were the Nets.
Of course, with Watson's restricted tag, Denver would have the opportunity to match a potential offer sheet from Brooklyn, but with limited cap space, would likely have to let the young wing walk.
Following his breakout season, Watson will likely command a new deal with $25-$30 million annually, as he has displayed the potential to be an All-Star caliber player with more development.
NBA reporters Marc Stein and Jake Fischer confirmed this value, noting that Watson and his camp are seeking a deal in that range.
For the Nets, their advantage may come in the form of Michael Porter Jr., who is very close with Watson from their time together in Denver.
Following a 31-point outburst against the New Orleans Pelicans in mid-January, Watson was greeted by Porter, who had traveled to cheer on his former teammate.
After the game, Watson was asked what it meant to have his old comrade in attendance, telling media, "That's my dog. Love that guy to death."
This 31-point showing was the cherry on top for Watson, as he earned Western Conference Player of the Week the week prior.
From January 5th to January 11th, Watson averaged 24.5 points, eight rebounds, four assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.8 blocks over a four-game span, shooting at a 50/70/67 clip.
Once the weak area of Brooklyn's roster, the front court has become more crowded with the acquisition of Julius Randle and new draftees Joshua Jefferson and Tyler Bilodeau.
However, Watson's multi-positional play style and length is something that the Nets don't have.
While Randle will likely play out this season with his new team, he has just one year remaining on his contract, with a player option next offseason.
If acquired, Watson could become a long-term starter post-Randle or high-level role player as Brooklyn continues its rebuild.
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