October 20th 2024.
The Denver Nuggets are getting closer to having all their key players back and ready for the start of the season. Coach Michael Malone shared that Peyton Watson, who has been out for almost five weeks due to a hamstring injury, was able to fully participate in practice on Sunday. This is great news for the 22-year-old forward, who missed all five of the Nuggets' preseason games.
Despite the injury, the team is still hopeful that Watson will be available for the season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday at Ball Arena. However, Malone also mentioned that they will have to see how Watson's injury responds to the practice before making a final decision. Tomorrow's practice will focus on introducing new offensive strategies, and the team is looking forward to finally being able to play on the main court.
Watson, who was selected 30th overall in the 2022 draft, played in 80 games for the Nuggets last season and averaged 6.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. However, his minutes decreased during the playoffs as the team prioritized scoring and floor-spacing against the Timberwolves' strong defense. With his outside shooting at only 25%, Watson often found himself open on the perimeter.
But this season, his role is expected to increase once again. Malone has identified Watson, along with Julian Strawther, Russell Westbrook, and Dario Saric, as key players in the Nuggets' second unit. While he doesn't want to put too much pressure on Watson, Malone acknowledges that his athleticism and versatility are important assets for the team. He also sees him playing well alongside Westbrook in the second unit.
Malone expressed his happiness at having Watson back on the court after such an untimely injury. He recognizes the challenges of getting hurt during training camp and missing all the preseason games. But he believes that Watson's return will be a positive addition to the team and is looking forward to seeing him in action.
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