Peyton Watson’s Rise Could Define the Nikola Jokic Era in Denver

Peyton Watson’s Rise Could Define the Nikola Jokic Era in Denver

By Nathaniel | September 18, 2025

As the Denver Nuggets continue their pursuit of sustained championship contention, the spotlight is quietly shifting toward a player whose development could determine the trajectory of the franchise’s golden era: Peyton Watson.

Once a raw prospect with tantalizing defensive upside, Watson has rapidly evolved into a versatile two-way contributor. His emergence comes at a pivotal moment for Denver, as the team recalibrates its bench depth following the departures of Bruce Brown, Jeff Green, and Vlatko Čančar. With Nikola Jokic still anchoring the team as its transcendent centerpiece, the question now is whether Watson can become the kind of complementary star who extends the MVP’s window of dominance.

Trust and Transformation

Watson’s sophomore season began with a defining moment: a candid conversation with Jokic during training camp. “What do you need to be able to trust me this year?” Watson asked. Jokic’s reply was simple but profound: “You’re gonna have to do the things that nobody else wants to do”. That mantra has since shaped Watson’s approach—gritty defense, off-ball movement, and relentless hustle.

Now in his third season, Watson has stepped up when opportunity knocked. With Aaron Gordon sidelined, Watson averaged 12.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists across 10 starts. His defensive instincts—highlighted by timely blocks and steals—have made him a momentum-shifter in key stretches.

The Bench Catalyst Denver Needs

Denver’s second unit remains in flux, with Christian Braun and Reggie Jackson the only proven rotation pieces. Watson’s 7-foot wingspan and defensive versatility offer a rare blend of athleticism and IQ. His offseason commitment—staying in Denver to train and bulk up—signals a player ready to seize a larger role.

If Watson can consistently deliver on both ends of the floor, he could become the linchpin of Denver’s supporting cast. More than just a role player, he has the potential to be the kind of glue guy who elevates stars and stabilizes rotations—exactly what Jokic needs to maintain his brilliance without shouldering every burden.

Shaping the Jokic Legacy

Nikola Jokic’s legacy in Denver is already secure, but its ceiling may hinge on whether the Nuggets can build a sustainable core around him. Peyton Watson’s growth isn’t just a subplot—it’s a central narrative. If he continues to rise, Denver won’t just be defending titles. They’ll be chasing more.