Nikola Jokic speaks on the Peyton Watson deal.
In return for the young wing, Denver received a 2031 first-round pick from the Cavaliers and a 2032 second-round pick from the Sacramento Kings.
The Los Angeles Clippers were also involved in the deal as they acquired Max Strus from the Cavaliers.
Watson will turn 24 in September, and was coming off a breakout season where he averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists on 49% shooting from the field and 41% from three. Because Denver was operating as a second apron team, they couldn’t take back any salary in the deal, but the return was light compared to expectations.
Nikola Jokic Speaks
At the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, where Nikola Jokic is representing Serbia, the Denver Nuggets star was asked by Miroslav Ćuk for his thoughts on the Watson trade.
"I'm happy for Peyton, he deserved it, we will miss his energy and skill. I don't think about season yet, we have to play this, but it's gonna be OK,” said Jokic.
Watson was reportedly looking for $25 to $30 million per season on his new deal. The Nuggets reportedly offered him between $16 and $18 million.
Upon being traded to the Cavaliers, Watson signed a four-year deal that will pay him $22 million per season.
When Jokic was sidelined for a month last season, Watson averaged 22.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game on 48% shooting from the field and 44% from three.
He suffered a hamstring injury late in the season and ended up missing Denver’s first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which was won by Minnesota in six games.
What’s Next For Denver?
The team is still operating over the second apron, limiting their flexibility. They still have at least one more move to make to get under the second apron.
One storyline that will likely loom over the season is the future of Nikola Jokic. He could’ve signed a contract extension the past two offseasons, but has delayed his decision to maximize his earnings next year.
Next offseason, he has a player option that he can decline before signing a five-year, $359.5 million max contract, should he choose to do so. He has said he intends to sign the contract, but it will be a talking point until he officially signs.
