The Nuggets are nearing the return of Peyton Watson to the lineup after being out since Feb. 7th with a hamstring injury. And one former NBA executive, John Hollinger, thinks his return could lead to the starting lineup at the first sign of defeat in the playoffs.
Hollinger appeared on "The Zach Lowe Show" on the heels of the Nuggets' gut-punch 129-126 loss to the Thunder, and he and Lowe both shared some thoughts about how to attack the Thunder defensively in their next meeting. Hollinger also gave a stern prediction that would shake up that defensive structure.
"Pulling Cam Johnson from the starting lineup is going to be Denver’s adjustment after their first playoff loss," Hollinger projected. He made that prediction while saying it will be Peyton Watson to move into his spot in the rotation.
It's not the most bold prediction, and there's been a lot of chatter about Cam's play recently, but it's a shakeup most probably didn't see coming when the season began. Cam just hasn't lived up to the hype surrounding his trade for Michael Porter Jr. this year.
Hollinger says the switch could be made sooner
Cam's currently only averaging 10.3 points since his return from injury on Feb. 7th, coincidentally, the same night Watson's absence began. Watson was averaging 21.4 points per game in a stretch that started when Nikola Jokic left the lineup until P-Wat exited with his grade 2 hamstring issue.
Hollinger mentioned it's that poor play that could bring about the change even sooner. "They’re not really getting the shooting piece from Cam Johnson right now, so why wouldn’t you make the change?" Hollinger retorically asked.
Watson could return to the lineup as early as next week, but he still has a little way to go in his recovery. He hasn't played against anyone except for coaches and AG. So if he were to replace Cam, it's at least a week or more away.
Lowe and Hollinger discussed how to play the Thunder
Fresh off the Thunder loss, and noting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had 35 points and 15 assists, plus the dagger three to win it against the Nuggets, Lowe said Denver's "only chance" to contain Shai may be Peyton Watson, thanks to his length and his speed. Otherwise, Lowe wasn't sure if the Nuggets could stop him without using a "gimmick defense."
The instant boost on both ends of the floor couldn't come soon enough for the Nuggets, who now find themselves in fifth in the Western Conference standings, but only a half-game back from the Lakers, whom they play after a stop in San Antonio to see Wemby and the Spurs.