The Denver Nuggets have been walking a tightrope without their two-time MVP, Nikola Jokic, for the past month-and somehow, they've stayed upright. Sitting comfortably in the top three of the Western Conference, Denver’s resilience has been nothing short of impressive.
A big part of that? Peyton Watson.
In his fourth NBA season, Watson has taken a leap that’s impossible to ignore. The former No. 30 overall pick from the 2022 draft has grown from a defensive specialist into a two-way contributor who’s helped stabilize the Nuggets during Jokic’s absence. Now, with Watson set to miss time due to injury, Denver is staring down another test of its depth and durability.
Through 49 games this season, Watson has been averaging 14.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.0 steal per game. Those numbers don’t just fill a box score-they tell the story of a player who’s become essential on both ends of the floor. His defensive instincts have always been there, but this season, he’s added real offensive punch to his game.
Watson’s shooting splits are the kind of numbers that turn heads around the league: 49.6% from the field and a scorching 41.7% from deep. And he hasn’t just been quietly efficient-he’s had moments that demand attention.
In January alone, he dropped 30-plus points three times, all on the road. That’s not just production; that’s poise under pressure.
At just 23 years old, Watson was shaping up to be a potential X-factor for Denver’s playoff run. His ability to guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and contribute in transition gave the Nuggets a versatile weapon off the bench-or in the starting lineup when needed. Now, the team will have to find a way to keep that momentum going without him.
Saturday’s matchup against the Bulls offers the Nuggets a chance to snap a three-game skid, but they’ll have to do it without one of the key players who helped them weather the storm earlier in the season. For Watson, the focus shifts to recovery. For Denver, it’s about holding the line until he’s back.
If his growth this season is any indication, Watson’s return could be a game-changer when it matters most.