Denver Nuggets and Watson representatives disagree over playoff availability

Internal conflict emerged within the Denver Nuggets organization regarding the availability of Watson during a playoff series. Denver team officials reportedly suspected that Watson delayed his return to the court to safeguard his market value ahead of free agency. Conversely, sources close to the player maintain that Watson was physically unable to participate due to a hamstring injury. A representative identified as Paul purportedly advised the player against returning, citing safety concerns regarding the injury. These conflicting accounts suggest that official injury reporting during the series may have served as a tactical maneuver by the team. The dispute highlights the tension between team expectations and individual player protection during postseason competition.

• 11:36 PMYahoo Sports — The Nuggets felt strongly that Watson could’ve suited …