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The Denver Nuggets have been exploring sign-and-trade options for Peyton Watson for weeks, and one of the rumored suitors, the Cleveland Cavaliers, have just made the first move to start their process to clear cap space to fit Watson, if that's their plan. The timing is perfect for the Nuggets to explore and kick the tires on a backup option to Watson for the 2026-27 season, and their rumored interest in DeMar DeRozan makes perfect sense. NBA insider Marc Stein says in his latest edition of The Stein Line (subscription required) that the Nuggets are one of the teams that have shown interest in the 37-year-old, 17-year veteran DeRozan. As they should. There aren't many options left on the free agent market who can play like DeRozan. "The Wizards, meanwhile, shifted their intent to sign another veteran this offseason by showing some interest in DeMar DeRozan, pursuing the former All-Star swingman along with teams such as Miami and Denver," Stein said. The Nuggets should be all-in on DeRozan if they trade Watson If the Nuggets do trade Watson, DeRozan is the perfect replacement. DeRozan would have to accept the veteran minimum and, most likely, a bench role for the first time in his career. But he'd probably have to accept that wherever he went at this point. But if he did choose Denver, he could be the Sixth Man replacement that the Nuggets would need for the departed Tim Hardaway Jr., and they should be all-in trying to get him if they have the open roster spot after a Watson trade. While DeRozan would certainly be a downgrade from Watson on defense, he hasn't lost a step in his offensive game. DeRozan, the six-time All-Star, averaged 18.4 points on 49.7% shooting from the floor for the Sacramento Kings last year. Sure, it was the first time in 13 years that he had failed to score 20 or more a game, but his mid-range jumper is still one of the better ones in the league. And in the Nikola Jokic-led offense, DeRozan could excel as a slasher and driver to the rim. And DeRozan has a very high basketball IQ, which would pair well with Jokic. DeRozan would have to learn a bench role If the Nuggets did add DeRozan, he would certainly have to become comfortable with a bench role for the first time in his career. Outside of 12 games during his rookie season, he's started every game he has played. But the grizzled vet shouldn't have an issue with that, with his aforementioned basketball IQ. He can adjust to the new role if he wants. But at least the Nuggets could be on the hunt for a backup option in case Watson gets traded. And DeRozan may just be the best option left on the board.