According to Jake Fischer of ‘The Stein Line, ’ the LA Clippers are ultimately considering a pursuit for Peyton Watson on the restricted free agency market. It’s not going to be as easy as one might hope, because they will have to follow a specific list of moves to create room, but if the front office does, Watson won’t just be on the radar; he’ll likely be near the top.
As a result of Fischer’s report, one thing is certain: the Denver Nuggets are stressed. They, without a doubt, want him back for the foreseeable future. He recently broke out, taking advantage of the opportunities that came his way in a fashion beyond the imagination of many, and was a crucial part of why Denver won 54 games.
Unfortunately for the Nuggets, Watson will likely demand a financial number that exceeds their budget. That's the harsh reality of the current situation.
The reasons Denver wants Watson back are why the Clippers should pursue him
Peyton Watson was not just another one of the many role players on the Denver Nuggets. He legitimately had one of the strongest impacts on the Nuggets’ roster, and even on some nights, carried the team when no one else could step up and contribute.
On the season, Watson averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists, shooting 49.1% from the field and 41.1% from beyond the arc through 54 games.
Look closer, though; Watson scored 30 against the Boston Celtics(1/7), while Jamal Murray struggled shooting-wise, 35 on the Washington Wizards(1/22), when Nikola Jokic was absent, and 29 versus the Oklahoma City Thunder(2/1), which would’ve been a win had the Nuggets’ superstar duo not shot a combined 10-25.
In the film, he’s everything teams need out of a wing. He shoots well, can defend like no other, and has expanded his offensive arsenal to the point where he can create his own looks to get to his sweet spots.
Now, if you combine all of the benefits of having Watson, you’ll see why the Nuggets want him, and the exact rationale behind a potential pursuit from the Clippers.
That said, the Clippers should make a strong push for Watson. He can make an impact on both sides of the ball, at a high level, and is someone the front office can include in the young core, as he’s just 23 years of age.
