Watson is a restricted free agent, and like a few other players in his position, he’s been made to wait thanks to a market lacking suitors with available cap space. Denver views him as a key player for the franchise’s future, but there is also a significant gap between what Watson wants, reportedly $25 million per year, and what the team is willing to pay. As a result, the Nuggets are reportedly open to a sign-and-trade as they look to avoid going into the second apron. At this point, only the Nets and Clippers have the cap space to provide Watson an offer sheet without needing to negotiate a trade.