The Lakers and Bulls are among teams expected to have interest in Nuggets wing Peyton Watson this offseason, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Fischer reports both teams explored trade scenarios for Watson prior to the February deadline. The Nets have also been mentioned as a possible suitor, though that appears to be more speculative.
Watson, 23, is coming off a breakout season with Denver, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 41.1 percent from three-point range.
All three teams are projected to have cap flexibility this summer.
The Lakers are expected to prioritize wing help. Brooklyn is likely to pursue upgrades after a 62-loss season and without control of its 2027 first-round pick. Chicago’s direction remains less defined amid front office changes, but the Bulls are projected to have significant cap space.
Watson will be a restricted free agent, giving Denver the ability to match any offer. That could be key.
The Nuggets already have more than $200 million committed to eight players for the 2026-27 season, meaning a new deal for Watson would push them deeper into tax territory unless other moves are made.
Still, restricted free agents rarely change teams. Denver is widely expected to retain control of the situation.
Watson has been limited by a hamstring injury, appearing in just five games since early February. He is not expected to return during the Nuggets’ first-round series against the Timberwolves.
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