Peyton Watson reflects on a past practice reprimand by Michael Malone

Peyton Watson discussed a moment from his rookie season during the 2023 playoffs where Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone publicly reprimanded him during practice. Watson, who now plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers following a sign-and-trade deal this summer, recalled that Malone singled him out for failing to identify a specific play while acting as a scout team player. Although Watson admitted he felt embarrassed and distressed by the encounter, he noted that the incident prompted him to improve his attention to detail regarding game plans and scouting reports. Former teammate Michael Porter Jr. also shared similar experiences with Malone, observing that the coach used intense feedback to hold players to high standards. Watson stated that he holds no hostility toward his former coach, acknowledging that the experience helped him prepare for a more significant professional role.

• 2:17 AMYahoo Sports — Peyton Watson Recalls How Michael Malone Embarrassed Him In Nuggets Practice, Says It Helped Him