In recent days, the Atlanta Hawks have been linked to Denver's Peyton Watson, and their interest comes as no surprise.
Watson, 23, is a prototypical modern wing. At 6'8, he can play quality minutes at multiple positions. His recent offensive breakout - combined with his already-established defensive traits - has made him a highly-coveted restricted free agent. But there's yet to be a resolution, even this late into the process.
The truth is, if the Nuggets really wanted him back, the deal would be done. He's simply asking for more annual money than they're willing to give, and rightfully, they've pivoted to exploring sign-and-trade scenarios. Here come the Hawks, who aren't afraid to explore the market for anyone.
The longer this saga lasts, the lower Watson's price tag will be
At the end of the day, he and his agency are looking for a guaranteed financial commitment, wherever that may be.
If they have to take a little bit less than what they were expecting at the beginning of free agency, so be it. They set the expectations high for a reason. A breakout season should be rewarded with a solid payday.
The thing is, though, Denver seems to only be willing to bring him back on a five-year, $70 million contract. An average of $14 million per year. He clearly deserves more than that.
But it's understandable from the side of the 2023 NBA Champions.
Watson's 2025-26 campaign could age as an outlier. It's unlikely, but it could. His growth every year has been encouraging, but sometimes players just hit a peak earlier than their trajectory indicates. Why risk that happening on a long-term contract worth over $20 million annually?
It's why the Hawks should be careful, but it shouldn't limit their interest in acquiring him. He fits everything they're currently building.
Denver seems to be lowering their sign-and-trade return package, too
The only way the Hawks could bring him in; it's a great thing that they've seemingly lowered their asking price of multiple first-round picks to just one.
Atlanta has no shortage of available draft capital, but it's clear that President of Basketball Operations Onsi Saleh is set on holding onto as much of it as possible. Optionality wins again.
As long as they maintain leverage in these ongoing negotiations, the Hawks could walk away with an absolute steal in Peyton Watson.
If his offensive game broke out last year, who's to say he can't upgrade it once more in the 2026-27 season?
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