The Cleveland Cavaliers could have a new defensive stopper in Peyton Watson as they prepare for the 2026-27 NBA season.
Following Cleveland’s offseason sign-and-trade for the former Denver Nuggets forward, members of the organization have reportedly compared Watson’s potential role to several of the NBA’s top two-way wings, including New York Knicks star OG Anunoby.
Cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor reported that Watson possesses a more developed offensive skill set, but his earliest impact with the Cavaliers could come on the defensive end.
“Watson is a more capable offensive player. He has a more well-rounded skillset – and it will be up to Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson and staff to find Watson’s best fit at that end of the floor,” Fedor wrote.
Questions remain about how many offensive opportunities Watson will receive and whether Cleveland will stagger his minutes to give him a larger role with the second unit. With those details still to be determined, Fedor pointed to defense as Watson’s clearest path to making an immediate impact.
Cavaliers envision Peyton Watson in OG Anunoby-type role
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The Cavaliers have internally discussed using Watson similarly to Anunoby, Minnesota Timberwolves wing Jaden McDaniels, Portland Trail Blazers forward Toumani Camara and Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins.
“Multiple members of the organization have brought up a similar role to Minnesota swingman Jaden McDaniels, New York’s OG Anunoby, Portland pest Toumani Camara, and Miami’s Andrew Wiggins, the bouncy athletic swingman who adapted his style and stepped into a stopper role during Golden State’s 2022 title run,” Fedor wrote. “Will Watson be that good? Tough to predict, but Cleveland believes his best basketball is still to come.”
The Anunoby comparison stands out after the Knicks forward helped New York win the 2026 NBA championship, his second career title. Anunoby’s ability to defend multiple positions while contributing offensively provides a potential blueprint for Watson’s role in Cleveland.
Watson, 24, arrives after a career-best 2025-26 season with Denver. He averaged 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.1 blocks across 54 games while playing 29.6 minutes per contest.
He also shot career highs of 49.1% from the field and 41.1% from 3-point range.
Cleveland will now attempt to integrate Watson into Kenny Atkinson’s rotation as it looks to take another step in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers’ previous season ended with a sweep against the eventual champion Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Watson’s ability to develop into the versatile defensive presence Cleveland envisions could play a significant role in the Cavaliers’ attempt to close that gap.