The Cleveland Cavaliers believe that they are just one key piece away from getting over the hump. After back-to-back laudable runs in the playoffs, including a return to the conference finals after eight years, the Cavaliers are making sure they do not regress.

A big part of that is improving the roster, which they have not accomplished. They pursued a reunion with LeBron James, but that did not materialize. The only addition the Cavaliers made is Mario Hezonja, who has not played in the NBA since 2020.

They have been linked to Jonathan Kuminga, DeMar DeRozan, and Peyton Watson, but nothing has developed. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, however, said there could be some light regarding Cleveland’s interest in Watson.

“I’m told that they are a ‘serious contender’ to land Peyton Watson. There have been other teams that are interested in Watson as well, but they are a serious candidate,” said McMenamin.

The 23-year-old forward is coming off a breakout campaign in his fourth year with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks. He shot close to 50% from the field, including over 41% from three-point distance. He, however, was limited to 54 games due to a hamstring injury.

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McMenamin’s colleague, David Dennis Jr., added that Watson, who won a title with the Nuggets in 2023, would be a great fit for the Cavaliers.

“The Peyton Watson thing raises the ceiling on these Cavs tremendously. I’m really high on Peyton Watson. I think about that stretch last year when (Nikola) Jokic was out. He averaged 22 points a game and took on the best guys defensively. He can be a real defensive stalwart with that Cavs team,” said Dennis.

It was recently reported that the Cavaliers’ lack of financial flexibility has prevented them from offering Watson or Kuminga a competitive deal.