The Denver Nuggets remain hopeful that breakout wing Peyton Watson can still make an impact in their first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, even as he continues to sit out with a lingering hamstring injury.
That optimism received a subtle but meaningful boost Thursday morning.
Peyton Watson Takes Court Ahead of Game 3 Despite Injury
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Watson was seen getting on-court work following the Nuggets’ shootaround in Minnesota—his first notable basketball activity since being sidelined.
“Peyton Watson getting some court work after Nuggets shootaround this morning in Minnesota,” Slater reported. “Remains out tonight with a hamstring injury, but Denver hopeful to get him back in this Minnesota series. Swing factor.”
Despite the encouraging development, Watson was officially ruled out for Game 3, marking his eighth consecutive absence due to a left hamstring strain.
Nuggets Holding Out Hope for Watson’s Return in Timberwolves Series
GettyPeyton Watson of the Denver Nuggets celebrates with Aaron Gordon after a play against the Washington Wizards.
While Watson’s return is not imminent, Denver’s decision to allow him light on-court activity signals progress in his recovery timeline. The Nuggets have consistently expressed hope that he could rejoin the rotation at some point during the series, particularly as the matchup tightens.
Watson’s absence has been felt on both ends of the floor, especially given his emergence this season as one of Denver’s most versatile two-way contributors.
Prior to the injury, Watson was averaging career highs of 14.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 30.7 minutes per game, while shooting an efficient 49.1% from the field and 41.1% from three-point range.
Denver’s Adjustment Without Peyton Watson
Without Watson, the Nuggets have leaned more heavily on players like Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson to fill the void on the wing.
Denver has also shortened its playoff rotation, placing added defensive responsibility on role players such as Bruce Brown and Spencer Jones, particularly against a Minnesota team that thrives on physicality and perimeter scoring.
Watson’s athleticism, length and defensive versatility are difficult to replicate—especially in a series where containing scorers like Anthony Edwards has become a priority.
Game 2 Collapse Puts Pressure on Denver
The Nuggets enter Game 3 after a frustrating 119-114 loss in Game 2, a contest in which they squandered a 19-point lead.
Despite strong performances from Jamal Murray, who scored 30 points, and Nikola Jokic, who added 24 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists, Denver faltered late.
Minnesota capitalized behind 30 points from Edwards and 24 from Julius Randle, closing the game on a decisive run to even the series at 1-1.
The Nuggets’ offense stalled in the fourth quarter, with Jokic and Murray combining to shoot just 2-of-12 in the final period. A missed free throw from Braun in the closing seconds further compounded Denver’s missed opportunity to force overtime.
Peyton Watson’s Absence Looms Large for Nuggets Defense
Watson’s absence has particularly impacted Denver’s defensive schemes. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes made him a key component in the team’s perimeter defense.
Earlier in the week, Watson participated only in what interim coach David Adelman described as a “fake practice,” working against coaches rather than engaging in full team drills. That limited activity suggested a cautious approach to his recovery.
Thursday’s on-court session, however, represents a step forward—even if incremental.
Denver Eyes Game 3 Turnaround as Series Shifts to Minnesota
With the series now shifting to Minnesota, the Nuggets face a critical stretch that could determine control of the matchup.
Denver must improve its offensive efficiency and maintain composure in late-game situations, areas that proved costly in Game 2. At the same time, the potential return of Watson looms as a possible turning point.
For now, his status remains day-to-day.
But as Slater noted, Watson could be a “swing factor” in the series—one whose presence might ultimately tilt the balance between two closely matched Western Conference contenders.
Whether that impact comes later in the series remains to be seen. For the Nuggets, any sign of progress—like Thursday’s on-court work—is enough to keep hope alive.
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