The Denver Nuggets are expected to get a key reinforcement ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, with guard Peyton Watson on track to return to the lineup after a lengthy absence.
Denver (43-28) hosts Portland (35-36) at 2:00 pm PT on NBA TV as the regular season enters a critical phase. The Nuggets currently hold the fifth seed in the Western Conference standings and are tied with the Houston Rockets (42-27) for fourth place, making each remaining game increasingly important for postseason positioning.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Watson is expected to return after missing more than six weeks with a hamstring injury.
"Denver's Peyton Watson is expected to return Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers after missing more than 6 weeks due to a hamstring strain. Watson has had a breakout year for the Nuggets, averaging career-highs 14.9 points, 30.7 minutes and 4.9 rebounds, along with 2 assists, 1.2 blocks, 1 steal per game," sources told ESPN.
Watson, 23, has emerged as a major contributor during the 2025-26 season, producing career-bests across the board. Through 49 games, including 39 starts, he has averaged 14.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, two assists, 1.2 blocks and one steal per game, while shooting an efficient 49.6% from the field and 41.7% from three-point range in 30.7 minutes per contest.
Peyton Watson's return will boost Nuggets vs. Blazers at crucial juncture
His last appearance came on February 4 in a 134–127 double-overtime loss to the New York Knicks. In that game, Watson recorded 10 points, five rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block while shooting 4 of 13 from the field and 1 of 6 from beyond the arc during 33 minutes.
Watson's return provides a timely boost for a Denver team that is trying to solidify its position in the tightly contested Western Conference. His two-way versatility, perimeter defense and improved scoring efficiency have played a key role in the Nuggets' success this season.
As Denver prepares to face a competitive Portland team that is still within reach of a postseason picture, Watson's availability could prove vital in maintaining momentum and strengthening the team's rotation heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
