Rich Paul says Peyton Watson was held out of playoffs to protect him

Rich Paul, the agent for Peyton Watson, stated on his podcast that Watson was intentionally held out of the playoffs last season to safeguard his health following a hamstring injury. Watson suffered the injury in February and did not participate in the playoffs, despite reports of frustrations from teammates over his absence. His decision not to play came as he was approaching free agency, eventually signing a four-year, $88 million deal with Cleveland. The agency's focus on Watson's long-term health may have influenced his salary demands and the Denver Nuggets' decisions regarding his contract.

• 4:25 PMYahoo Sports — Agent Rich Paul says Peyton Watson was held out of playoffs to protect him from himself