Bulls Miss Out on Trade for Sharp-Shooting Nuggets G Watson

The Bulls missed out on acquiring a talented player, sharp-shooting Denver Nuggets guard Peyton Watson, in a five-team deal completed by the Cavaliers, Nuggets, Clippers, and two other teams. Watson, a restricted free agent, will join the Cleveland Cavaliers after signing a four-year, $88 million deal with a player option and trade kicker. The Nuggets received an unprotected 2031 first-round pick and a 2032 Sacramento Kings second-rounder in return, along with small forward Julian Reese from the Wizards, who will be waived off his two-way deal. The Clippers added Cavaliers guard/forward Max Strus, while the Hornets acquired Dennis Schroder and cash. The Wizards received guard Tre Mann and a 2027 second-round pick. Watson averaged 14.6 points per game last season with a 49.1% shooting percentage, including 41.1% from three-point range. The Bulls have other trade possibilities ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, with executive vice president Bryson Graham potentially considering deals before the team’s opener against Toronto on October 21. The Bulls already acquired guard Norman Powell from the Miami Heat, and while they may test the waters with their current roster, additional veteran presence like Johnson (12.2 points per game, 48% field goal shooter) or Nnaji (under contract through 2027-28) could add depth to their front line.