NBA Notes: Wizards, Trae Young, Nuggets, Peyton Watson, Hawks

Wizards

Wizards guard Trae Young appears fully committed to his new situation in Washington.

Speaking recently on The Pivot Podcast, Young acknowledged the criticism that has followed him in recent seasons and suggested he feels overlooked heading into 2026-27.

“This is the most slept on I’ve been in my whole life,” Young said.

Young, acquired from Atlanta in January, has repeatedly expressed enthusiasm about joining the Wizards. As noted by Ben Strober of Wizards Roundtable, Washington views the four-time All-Star as the offensive engine capable of helping accelerate the franchise’s rebuild.

The expectation remains that Young and the Wizards will work toward a new long-term contract this summer, according to previous reporting from The Stein Line.

Nuggets

Keeping restricted free agent Peyton Watson may prove easier said than done for the Nuggets.

According to comments from NBA insider Jake Fischer, Watson’s market value could land somewhere in the $30 million-to-$35 million annual range after his breakout season (via Roundtable’s Jack Haslett).

Watson averaged career highs of 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists while emerging as a key contributor for Denver.

The Nuggets have consistently signaled they intend to retain Watson, though doing so could require additional financial maneuvering elsewhere on the roster.

Hawks

If Atlanta decides not to address its frontcourt through the draft, several veteran centers could emerge as free-agent options.

James Piercey of Hawks Roundtable recently identified three potential targets: Brook Lopez, Mitchell Robinson and Robert Williams III.

Lopez would offer experience and floor spacing, while Robinson remains one of the league’s better rim protectors and offensive rebounders. Williams, meanwhile, continues to intrigue teams when healthy because of his defensive versatility and shot-blocking ability.

With Onyeka Okongwu expected to remain a major part of Atlanta’s plans, the Hawks may simply be looking for additional size and depth behind him heading into next season.