The Cleveland Cavaliers would aim to pivot after missing out on signing LeBron James as a free agent. More than a homecoming, the franchise had wanted a super-duper star presence on the roster.
The Cavs are now linked to younger wings, with Denver Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson among the most notable names.
According to ClutchPoints NBA reporter Tomer Azarly, the Cavaliers are in the mix of teams in Watson’s pursuit. This is more so the need to build off a strong core that made it to the Eastern Conference finals.
“The Cleveland Cavaliers have also been looking for ways to upgrade their roster around Donovan Mitchell and James Harden, who remains unsigned, to give the Cavs financial flexibility to make things happen,” Azarly wrote.
Watson may not come across as a marquee name but he had a breakout year and is one of the most promising young talents in the league. A huge reason for the Nuggets’ reluctance to move him.
Cavaliers Pushing for Star Addition to Help Donovan Mitchell
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – OCTOBER 29: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts after making a three-point basket against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter of a game at the TD Garden on October 29, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Being a restricted agent kind of complicates trading options for Cleveland in getting Watson. He does hold a one-year, $6.5 million qualifying offer that would make him an unrestricted free agent next summer if he chooses that path. However, Denver would have to trade him now if no agreement is reached over a new deal.
Watson’s camp is reportedly seeking a deal higher than what Denver has put on the table. In the franchise’s defense, they are in a tough spot financially to have five significant earners heading into next season. The majority of their big earners are in early stages of their extension deals.
This tough position opens the door to potentially moving Watson to get flexibility and the Cavs could be an option. A sign-and-trade between both teams with the Nuggets needing flexibility. A multi-team proposal could also work with pieces on a team-friendly deal while the Cavs send a significant salary elsewhere.
Still, the Nuggets would make sure they are left with no other options before moving Watson.
“No matter how this goes, no deal is expected to take place any time soon as the NBA offseason is fully underway and it safe to assume both the Nuggets and Watson’s camp will maintain dialogue until September, when things are expected to heat up again,” Azarly added.
The Cavs would have to seek other options unless it would be a gamble hoping the Nuggets don’t meet Watson’s demands. They already added Mario Hezonja this offseason and have reportedly explored other wing options such as Jonathan Kuminga and DeMar DeRozan.
How Watson Would be an Ideal Wing Addition in Cleveland
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – JANUARY 11: Peyton Watson #8 of the Denver Nuggets drives against Kevin Porter Jr. #7 of the Milwaukee Bucks in the second half at Ball Arena on January 11, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
Watson is only 23-years-old, making him a long-term piece and a high-upside one at that. He turned into a starter-caliber two-way wing in 2025-26 and largely impressed, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.1 blocks. He played 54 games and started 40 shooting at a career high from three.
He is no LeBron James but Watson has all the makings of a star that can solve the Cavs’ wing needs. He is versatile and has defensive attributes to his game with his 6-foot-8 stature.
Denver’s stance would be the biggest obstacle in getting Watson but if a resolution isn’t met soon, an opening could happen.
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