Denver Nuggets forward Peyton Watson understands why he didn’t get an extension before last week’s deadline. Watson doesn’t hold any ill will towards the Nuggets either.
“From what I understand, it was just a financial business decision (for the Nuggets). Obviously, with the new CBA and the second apron, things of that nature, they wanted to stay out of that,” Watson told The Denver Post. “As a business, you’ve gotta operate (based on) what’s best for your business. And when it comes time for me to make my decision next summer, I’ve gotta operate as a business myself.”
Watson praised the Nuggets and said he thinks things will go how they are supposed to go.
“That’s no diss to the Nuggets. That’s no diss to the Kroenkes. They’ve showed me a lot of love, a lot of hospitality, and they’ve done a lot for me,” Watson said. “They gave me a chance in this league, to prove that I’m gonna be here for a while. So, I think everything will work itself out.”
Denver head coach David Adelman said Watson has a chance to get himself paid on his next deal with strong play this season.
“Peyton has a chance here,” Adelman said. “If he has a great year, he can put himself where he wants to. That’s what our league is about. You prove it every day. You prove it every year. And eventually, if you work hard and you do the right things, you’ll benefit. Peyton’s been great. He had a really good preseason. And everybody has their time. So, he can set his market, and I think he will.”