The Denver Nuggets’ offseason is in full swing, with trade rumors swirling and free agency targets being debated across the league. While external additions are being discussed, the franchise’s most pressing priorities may already be wearing Nuggets uniforms. Restricted free agents Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones perfectly align with Denver’s roster needs in terms of athleticism, versatility, perimeter defense, and scoring upside. Letting either player walk would be a significant misstep.
Peyton Watson: Priority Number One
Peyton Watson emerged as a breakout performer when injuries forced him into the starting lineup. His offensive growth was undeniable. In just his fourth start of the season, Watson exploded for 32 points. He then delivered a career-high 35-point performance against the Washington Wizards during a standout January, where he averaged 21.9 points per game and earned Player of the Week honors.
While his scoring outbursts grabbed headlines, Watson’s true value lies in his elite athleticism and perimeter defense — areas where the Nuggets were painfully exposed in their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Watson missed the entire series with a hamstring injury. His absence was felt on both ends of the floor, as Denver lacked the length, versatility, and defensive dynamism he provides.
Even if Watson’s next contract approaches the neighborhood of Christian Braun’s five-year, $125 million extension, the Nuggets must find a way to retain him. As a restricted free agent, Denver holds the final say on matching any offers, and re-signing Watson should sit at the very top of their priority list.
Spencer Jones: High-Upside Value at the Right Price
Spencer Jones’ development tells a classic underdog story. He began the season as a two-way player on the bench but finished it starting in the playoffs and making significant contributions against the Timberwolves. In Game 5, Jones delivered 20 points, along with 3 steals and 3 blocks, showcasing his defensive instincts and ability to impact the game in multiple ways.
Beyond the highlights, Jones proved to be a reliable shooter, converting 39.6% of his three-point attempts over the course of the season. His skill set as a 3-and-D wing — or small-ball big — gives the Nuggets valuable flexibility in modern lineups.
Crucially, Jones represents exceptional value. As a restricted free agent, he is projected to command only the minimum salary, making him an absolute bargain for a player who brings hustle, defensive versatility, and shooting ability.
Filling Critical Needs Internally
Both Watson and Jones address the exact gaps the Nuggets need to fill heading into next season: perimeter defense, athleticism on the wings, secondary scoring, and lineup flexibility. Rather than chasing outside free agents first, Denver should focus on securing these two homegrown talents who already understand the system and have shown they can thrive in it.
The Nuggets’ front office has the tools — particularly matching rights on restricted free agents — to keep this duo in place. Doing so would maintain continuity, bolster the roster’s strengths, and avoid the risk of losing key pieces that checked too many boxes to ignore.
Nuggets fans should hope to see both Peyton Watson and Spencer Jones back in Denver uniforms next season. In a competitive Western Conference, letting these two slip away is simply not an option.