The Cleveland Cavaliers have been rumored to be in the Peyton Watson sweepstakes. But in order to even start thinking about making a move for the 23-year-old restricted free agent, the Cavs would first have to make a move to clear salary cap space so that they can eventually complete the Watson deal. Well, the first move has been made, and now Denver Nuggets fans are wondering if Watson's days in the Mile High City really are numbered.
It's certainly possible. NBA insider Marc Stein reported just days ago that the Cavs could be "a team to watch for Peyton Watson." The Cavs would have to shed salary via a Dennis Schröder or Max Strus trade, or both, to do it, Stein said. And the first domino has now fallen.
ESPN's Shams Charania reports that the Cavs will be sending Schröder and cash to the Charlotte Hornets for Tre Mann. The move saves $6.8 million for the Cavs next season. It leaves the Cavs with $29.67 million worth of wiggle room under the NBA's first-apron luxury tax penalty threshold, which they would be capped at by taking on Watson in the sign-and-trade.
The Cavs really might be able to pry Watson from the Nuggets
This isn't some pipe dream for the Cavs. And step one, trading Schröder, shows that the Cavs could be angling for Watson. And even James Harden is on board to help out, according to reports. Harden has been waiting to sign his contract extension with the Cavs to help facilitate the Cavs making moves. But $29.67 million isn't enough space for the Cavs to sign Harden and Watson. But shedding all of Strus' $16.6 million might get them really close.
The Cavs do have two first-round picks they could part with, and two second-round picks. But so far, no team has offered a first-rounder for Watson. But it wouldn't surprise me if the Cavs do throw in a first-rounder if they're that serious about Watson.
If the Nuggets trade Watson for no salary in return and can get a third team to absorb Zeke Nnaji's $7.4 million this and next year, they can get under the second apron threshold. And then there's enough cap space for the Nuggets to add another veteran on a minimum contract.
So this really could be a lot closer to coming to fruition now than it was a few days ago. There are still hurdles to clear, but the Cavs just cleared the first one. If Strus gets traded next, then it really gets real, real fast.
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