As the NBA trade deadline looms, the Los Angeles Lakers are understandably in win-now mode-looking for the kind of roster upgrade that could push them back into true contention after last season’s early playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. But while the front office is surely working the phones ahead of next Thursday, there’s also a longer-term move worth keeping an eye on-one that could pay off big next summer.
That move? A potential run at Denver Nuggets wing Peyton Watson in restricted free agency.
Now, this isn’t about the Lakers making a splash just for the sake of it. Watson is the type of player who fits the mold of what this team has been missing: young, athletic, versatile, and still on the rise.
At just 23 years old, he’s carved out a bigger role in Denver this season, and he’s making the most of it. With several Nuggets starters sidelined by injury, Watson has stepped into the spotlight-and he’s not just surviving, he’s thriving.
Through 46 games, the former UCLA Bruin is averaging 14.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and a steal per contest. But the numbers only tell part of the story.
Watson’s impact goes beyond the box score. He’s shown real growth as a scorer away from the ball, knocking down threes with increasing confidence and handling the rock more comfortably.
Defensively, he’s a problem-able to switch across multiple positions and provide rim protection from the wing. He’s not just an athlete anymore; he’s becoming a complete player.
That kind of two-way upside is exactly what the Lakers could use, especially as they look to build a bridge between their current core and whatever comes next. Watson’s ability to contribute on both ends while still having room to grow makes him an intriguing fit alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis-or whoever might be leading the charge in L.A. a year from now.
Of course, prying Watson away from Denver won’t be easy. As a restricted free agent, the Nuggets can match any offer he receives.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Denver is already projected to be over the second tax apron next season, and that’s before factoring in Watson’s next deal. The Nuggets have made it clear they want to retain their homegrown talent, but financial pressure could force some tough decisions.
If the price tag climbs high enough, the Lakers could be in position to make a serious run. And yes, there’s a little extra juice to the idea of L.A. poaching a promising young piece from the defending champs. But this wouldn’t just be about sticking it to a rival-it’s about adding a player who checks a lot of boxes for a team that needs to get younger, more athletic, and more dynamic on the wing.
Watson’s breakout season has put him on the radar for teams across the league. If he keeps trending upward, don’t be surprised if the Lakers are one of the first in line when free agency opens this summer.