Cavs’ Peyton Watson rejects 3-and-D box: ‘I’m just Peyton Watson’

Peyton Watson understands why he is called a 3-and-D player. He simply doesn’t intend to stop there.

When Cavaliers radio play-by-play voice Tim Alcorn asked Watson about that label during Thursday’s introductory press conference, the new Cleveland forward acknowledged that it helped him establish himself in the NBA.

“I think that’s the category that I’ve fallen under as I’ve made my way up in this league,” Watson said, via Cleveland reporter Spencer German. “But I also don’t define myself by that term.”

Watson entered the league known primarily for his defensive length and athleticism. He knew his outside shot needed considerable work if he wanted consistent minutes.

“I knew that my three-point acumen wasn’t where it needed to be, so that’s something that I’ve worked tirelessly on,” he said. “I’ve grinded my way to a 40 percent three-point shooter, which nobody ever thought would happen.”

Watson actually connected on 41 percent of his threes during his final season with the Nuggets. His next target is 45 percent. Still, he views 3-and-D as his entry point, not his ceiling.

“I see so much for myself and so much in the potential that I have to continue to grow and get better that I never like to box myself in one category,” Watson said. “I’m just Peyton Watson, and you can guarantee that I’m going to show up on a nightly basis and affect winning.”

The Cavs gave Watson a four-year, $88 million contract after acquiring him in a three-team trade. They surrendered Max Strus and an unprotected 2031 first-round pick to complete the deal.

That price suggests the Cavs also see more than an archetype. They believe Watson can become a major piece of a championship team. Watson clearly believes it, too.

 (Main image via Spencer German/Screenshot)