Nuggets' Peyton Watson to Return Sunday vs. Blazers

Watson has been out for over six weeks with a hamstring strain.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 6:49pm

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Denver Nuggets forward Peyton Watson is expected to return to the lineup on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers after missing more than six weeks due to a hamstring injury, according to sources. Watson's return will mark the first time the Nuggets have had their full roster available since early in the season, as several key players including Nikola Jokic, Aaron Gordon, Cameron Johnson, and Christian Braun have all missed extended time this year.

Why it matters

The Nuggets have been dealing with significant injuries throughout the season, so getting Watson back will be a boost as they look to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race. Watson's return could help provide more depth and rotational options for the Nuggets as they aim to make a deep postseason run.

The details

Watson has been sidelined since early in the season with a hamstring strain. His return on Sunday against the Blazers will mark the first time the Nuggets have had their full roster available in months, as several key players including Nikola Jokic, Aaron Gordon, Cameron Johnson, and Christian Braun have all missed extended time due to various injuries.

  • Watson has been out for more than six weeks due to the hamstring injury.
  • Watson is expected to return to the lineup on Sunday, March 21, 2026 against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The players

Peyton Watson

A forward for the Denver Nuggets who has been sidelined for over six weeks with a hamstring strain.

Nikola Jokic

The three-time MVP for the Denver Nuggets who has missed extended time this season due to injury.

Aaron Gordon

A key player for the Denver Nuggets who has also missed extended time this season due to injury.

Cameron Johnson

A player for the Denver Nuggets who has missed extended time this season due to injury.

Christian Braun

A player for the Denver Nuggets who has missed extended time this season due to injury.

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What they’re saying

“Watson's return would mark the first time the Nuggets have had their full roster available since early in the season.”

— Shams Charania, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Nuggets will look to get Watson integrated back into the lineup as they aim to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race.

The takeaway

Getting Peyton Watson back from injury is a significant boost for the Nuggets, who have been dealing with a rash of injuries to key players throughout the season. His return could provide more depth and options for the team as they push towards the playoffs.