Lakers Could Pursue Another Hometown Hero in Free Agency

It’s never too early to begin discussing the offseason. The Lakers are reportedly interested in a young breakout forward who also has ties to the City of Angels.

Lakers Could Pursue Another Hometown Hero in Free Agency

Lakers Eyeing Nuggets Wing Peyton Watson

NBA insider Jake Fischer has highlighted the Lakers as a cap-space heavy team “preparing interest” in Peyton Watson.

“It must be said, though, that rival executives are increasingly curious about Denver’s likely struggles to retain Peyton Watson this summer given the fourth-year swingman’s recent breakout play amid all of the Nuggets’ health woes. We’ll certainly be tracking this situation over the coming months, since Watson’s restricted free agency is already shaping up to become a major domino of the offseason. Sources say teams that are projected to have cap space — notably such as the Lakers — are already preparing interest.”

In 44 games for the injury-ravaged Nuggets, Watson is averaging 14.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting nearly 50% from the field, 41% from three and 74% from the free-throw line. He’s turned into a vital option after Nikola Jokic’s injury, putting up 22.4 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists in the three-time MVP’s absence. Watson has also improved defensively as of late. He’s averaging 1.2 steals and 1.5 blocks in that span and using his length and athleticism to bother his opponents.