Nuggets Lose Peyton Watson to Cavs but Add Ex-Warriors Superstar in Surprising Offseason Move

For the majority of the summer, the Denver Nuggets have been operating over the second apron. What this means is that the Nuggets don't have enough wiggle room to expand their roster and acquire valuable pieces to help them contend for a title this coming 2026-27 season.

Despite their burdensome circumstances, the Nuggets have managed to bring back a former NBA star. However, it's not in the way everyone might think. Former Golden State Warriors wing Jason Richardson is making his return to the league as part of the Nuggets' broadcast team.

"I’m excited to officially announce that I’ll be joining the Denver Nuggets as an analyst this season," Richardson wrote on X. "Denver has always been a special place for me and my family. We’ve built so many lifelong friendships here and have always considered Colorado home."

"To be back in Denver and now have the opportunity to be part of the Nuggets organization makes this next chapter even more meaningful," Richardson continued. "I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to get started. See you this season, Nuggets fans!"

According to sources, Richardson will specifically be a studio analyst for pregame, halftime, and postgame coverage. The former NBA star will also make a few appearances as a commentator in select Nuggets games.

While it's always exciting to see a familiar face return to the league, even if it's off the court, this isn't exactly the offseason move Nuggets fans have hoped for.

On Wednesday, Denver lost Peyton Watson in a three-team trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers and LA Clippers. Watson was sent to the Cavs, while the Nuggets received a couple of draft picks. As mentioned earlier, the Nuggets' situation is quite tricky since they're currently in the second apron.

NBA Insider Hints Nuggets' Intention to Sign Veteran Wing After Peyton Watson's Exit

Despite the Denver Nuggets' difficult situation of being in the second apron, they can still make some offseason moves. However, they are very limited. The only type of contracts they can offer at this point to free agents are veteran minimum deals.

Having that in mind, NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the Nuggets now have their attention set on DeMar DeRozan after the departure of Peyton Watson.

"The Denver Nuggets are pivoting and have their eyes directed on six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who remains a free agent in demand for contenders," Haynes wrote on X.

While bringing in a talent of DeRozan's caliber to the team will undoubtedly help bolster the roster, the tricky part now is whether both parties will come to an agreement. As mentioned earlier, the only type of contract the Nuggets can offer at this point is a veteran minimum deal.

Other sources reported that DeRozan is currently looking for a multi-year contract that can pay him $8 million to $10 million annually.