Peyton Watson is a former Bruin who continues to play a key role off the bench for the Denver Nuggets. Watson who won an NBA championship as a rookie with the Nuggets, has grown his game each year. He was considered a very raw prospect when he left UCLA after one year at 19 years old.
PEYTON WATSON POSTER. 🔥
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— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 26, 2025
Watson was originally drafted with the 30th pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. His draft rights were then dealt to the Nuggets, who knew he would be a project. He didn’t see much time his rookie year, but in the two years since he has grown his game at all levels. Including being a decent 3-point shooter which he always struggled with leading up to the NBA.
The calling card is defense and the versatility to guard multiple positions as needed. He is a lanky player and can bother smaller guards with his speed or defend forwards with his length. Being a guy who can act as a primary defender is a rarity in the game today as teams are scoring 120+ a night. His help defense and instincts have also been a tremendous addition as it allows him to block shots with his frame.
THE GAME SAVING BLOCK FROM NONE OTHER THAN SWATSON pic.twitter.com/yNbzLWuNXg
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) November 7, 2024
Watson will have another opportunity this year to help the Nuggets try and contend. They are built to win now. He will never be a guy that is going to go out and get you 40 points. But he knows his role and plays it very well. Continue your strengths and grow your game and it is going to carve you out a long NBA career. That is the path Watson can create with his hard work ethic and has earned him the right to start discussing his second NBA contract with the Nuggets.