Nuggets Expect Peyton Watson to Return Against Blazers

Denver's injury report is the cleanest it's been since November as they aim to strengthen their lineup ahead of the playoffs.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:10pm

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The Denver Nuggets have announced that forward Peyton Watson is expected to return from a 19-game absence and play against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday. This will be the first time the Nuggets have had their full lineup available since November, as they look to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race with just 11 games remaining in the regular season.

Why it matters

The Nuggets have dealt with numerous injuries throughout the 2025-26 season, hampering their ability to build chemistry and consistency. Watson's return, along with the team's other key defenders like Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Cam Johnson, should provide a boost to the Nuggets' defense, which has struggled at times this season despite their strong offensive production.

The details

The Nuggets have listed Watson as questionable, but ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the team is expecting him to suit up for the first time since February 4. This will be the first time in months that the Nuggets have had zero players ruled out ahead of a game. In contrast, the Trail Blazers will be without Damian Lillard and Shaedon Sharpe, while Jerami Grant and Vit Krejci are listed as questionable.

  • The Nuggets and Blazers are set to tip off at 3:00 p.m. MT in Denver on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
  • Watson has been out for 19 games due to a right hamstring strain.

The players

Peyton Watson

A forward for the Denver Nuggets who is expected to return from a 19-game absence due to a right hamstring strain.

Nikola Jokic

The superstar center for the Denver Nuggets.

Damian Lillard

The star point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who will miss the game against the Nuggets due to a left Achilles tendon injury.

Shaedon Sharpe

The rookie guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who will miss the game against the Nuggets due to a left fibula stress fracture.

Jerami Grant

The forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who is listed as questionable for the game against the Nuggets due to left foot soreness.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Nuggets will look to use these final 11 games of the regular season to get their full lineup adjusted and ready for the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Nuggets' ability to get healthy at the right time could be a significant boost as they aim to make a deep playoff run. Their defense should improve with the return of key contributors, complementing their already potent offense.