Nuggets rumoured to sign six-time All-Star as emergency replacement after losing Peyton Watson

The Denver Nuggets are actively considering DeMar DeRozan as a potential emergency replacement for Peyton Watson following the 2026 offseason. The Nuggets were unable to re-sign Watson, instead engaging in a sign-and-trade deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Clippers, which resulted in the Nuggets receiving two picks in return.

With Watson's restricted free agency approaching in late August, Denver is exploring DeRozan as their potential solution, according to sources. DeMar DeRozan, a 37-year-old former All-Star, averaged 18.4 points and 4.1 assists for the Sacramento Kings last season before being waived by the team. DeRozan did not qualify for the playoffs in the 2020s, having previously made an appearance in the first round with the Chicago Bulls in 2021.

Although Nikola Jokic's playmaking abilities could potentially enhance DeRozan's impact, there are concerns about DeRozan's effectiveness as an off-ball outside shooter when playing alongside Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon. The Nuggets currently lack elite wing options in the free agency market, and trading an existing wing like Cam Johnson is unlikely to yield a significant on-court improvement at this stage of the offseason.

DeRozan's playing style diverges from the Jokic-Murray era, as his mid-range-heavy approach does not align well with the Nuggets' spacing-oriented offense led by Jokic. The team currently features Cam Johnson and Spencer Jones as their primary wing options, with Jones' contract potentially leading to substantial luxury tax penalties for Denver.

Given the depth issues within the Nuggets' roster, adding DeRozan as a versatile backup who can play across three positions may prove valuable. While signing DeRozan for the 2026 season would represent a downgrade in terms of overall value compared to Watson's 3-and-D skillset, the Nuggets may not find comparable talent available in free agency or through trades, making this option a necessary consideration for now.