Peyton Watson’s Offseason Mindset
This offseason, Peyton Watson’s approach to training has been rooted in not fearing injury, which he believes has positively impacted his performance. Last year, he faced a hamstring strain that kept him from participating in the Denver Nuggets’ preseason games. This setback stemmed from a pickup game just prior to training camp, a memory that still lingers for him.
Lessons Learned
Rather than opting out of scrimmages, Watson has chosen to increase his playing time. “I didn’t play as much last summer, which led to a soft-tissue injury before the season,” he explained. “My body struggled to transition from shooting drills to live games. This summer, I’ve played significantly more, and it’s been beneficial for my conditioning. I feel better entering this season than ever before.”
Expanded Role in Preseason
Watson’s development this preseason extends beyond basic conditioning. He has taken on more ball-handling responsibilities, catching the attention of Coach David Adelman. When asked about standout players, Adelman identified Watson immediately, appreciating his progress.
Offensive Opportunities
In his fourth professional season, Watson is expected to expand his offensive contributions, moving beyond his previous role as a corner shooter and a potential dunker. Although he successfully converted 44.7% of his corner three-point attempts last season, he will also be tasked with initiating plays during games.
Team Dynamics
Adelman acknowledges that this purely offensive role remains a work in progress, emphasizing the need for collective understanding among players. “It’s not just about bringing the ball up; it entails knowing the strategies in play,” he highlighted.
Impressive Preseason Numbers
Through four preseason games, Watson’s usage rate climbed from 13.8% to 17.3%. With averages of 14.7 points and 6.9 rebounds per 36 minutes, and a field goal shooting percentage of 55%, Watson has demonstrated solid performance, particularly as a slasher.
Contract Considerations
While showcasing his skills, Watson is also navigating contract negotiations. The Nuggets and Watson have until the upcoming deadline to finalize a rookie-scale extension, or he could enter restricted free agency next summer. Although both sides are motivated to reach an agreement, financial considerations may complicate matters, particularly with the team’s current salary cap situation.
