Aaron Gordon trade and 4 other genius Nuggets moves Calvin Booth nailed
By Tyler Watts
4. Peyton Watson trade
Booth was aggressive in adding young talent to the team’s roster. After drafting Braun, he traded JaMychal Green and a 2027 first-round pick for Watson and two second-rounders. It was a bold move, but Booth liked Watson’s potential and was eager to acquire the 19-year-old.
Watson barely played as a rookie, but the final pick in the first round is showing his skills in year two. The 6’8 wing is averaging 6.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.0 block in 18.4 minutes per game. He is a strong defender and will be needed off the bench in the playoffs. The 21-year-old is drawing Bruce Brown comparisons and continues to improve.
Finding two quality role players after pick 20 in any draft is not easy. Christian Braun and Peyton Watson have room to grow but are already making an impact. Both are under contract through 2026 before becoming restricted free agents. Their bargain contracts could help the Nuggets avoid the second tax apron next season and give the franchise some roster flexibility.
It was not just young talent that Calvin Booth added to bring a championship to the Mile High City. He signed a key veteran that helped push the Denver Nuggets over the mountain.