If the Milwaukee Bucks want Peyton Watson, they might be forced to take on an unwanted contract to convince Denver to do a sign-and-trade. According to HoopsHype insider Michael Scotto, the Bucks have considered absorbing Zeke Nnaji in addition to Watson to take some financial burden off of the Nuggets' shoulders. It would be a worthy move.
Nuggets' financial crisis opens door for Bucks
While he's still just 25, Nnaji hasn't lived up to the four-year, $32 million deal the Nuggets handed him. Owed $7.5 million this coming season while holding a player option for that same value the next year, it's clear why the Nuggets, who are currently facing a financial dilemma that would put a dent in any checkbook, would look to move him if they come to terms with dealing Watson.
Acquiring Nnaji would make even more sense for Milwaukee if it allows the Bucks to acquire Watson without surrendering draft capital. After trading Giannis Antetokounmpo, building through the draft should be a key focus for the Bucks, so they are not in a position to burn through their picks. Taking in an extra $15 million could be a worthwhile short-term obstacle to acquire a starting power forward.
Nnaji could be a fine backup in Milwaukee
Even if he hasn't vindicated the Nuggets for handing him that contract, Nnaji isn't a lost cause entirely. As mentioned, he's still just 25 and has battled an inconsistent role throughout his career. If he gets a fresh start elsewhere, perhaps somewhere he can spread his wings a bit more, Nnaji could potentially go from being viewed as a negative asset to a fine rotational piece.
Currently, the power forward spot is in need of more depth. Currently, the team has Kyle Kuzma, Pete Nance, Nate Ament, and Bogoljub Markovic. The final two likely won't play a prominent role in 2026-27, while Kuzma and Nance feel like they will take on most of the work. If the Bucks get a sign-and-trade done, Watson becomes the starter, while Nnaji would get a chance to be the backup.
Perhaps the intensity of a training camp competition in a fresh environment could ignite Nnaji's fire, especially with rumors swirling that Denver wants to dump him.
For now, talks are fluid. The Milwaukee Bucks, who NBA Jake Fischer (subscription required) says are the likeliest external suitor to land Watson, are likely sorting through various scenarios. If any of them involve taking on Nnaji without sacrificing any draft capital, the Bucks should contemplate them.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.
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