Peyton Watson says Nuggets pressured him to return from hamstring injury

Peyton Watson stated he felt pressured by the Denver Nuggets to return from a hamstring injury before the 2026 playoffs. The forward said the organization accelerated his recovery, leading to a re-injury during the final stages of the regular season. Watson previously sustained the grade 2 strain in a game against the New York Knicks and felt he was rushed back too early during rehab sessions. Despite his return against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 22, he remained limited and was eventually sidelined again. These comments address criticism regarding his absence during the postseason after trade rumors suggested he sat out for contract protection. Watson has since joined the Cleveland Cavaliers via a sign-and-trade agreement.

• 6:04 AMYahoo Sports — Peyton Watson Felt Pressured From Nuggets To Return From Hamstring Injury Before 2026 Playoffs