New NBA Rumors on Jalen Duren, Peyton Watson's 'Unappealing' Scenario in Latest Contract Talks

Restricted free agents Jalen Duren and Peyton Watson might not receive long-term contracts following their 2025-26 campaigns with the Detroit Pistons and Denver Nuggets, respectively.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Duren and Watson have been "weighing the unappealing prospect" of playing out the 2026-27 season on qualifying offers before hitting unrestricted free agency next summer.

Watson could accept his $6.5 million qualifying offer with Denver after the Nuggets initially offered him a four-year deal that was believed to be "in the $70 million range," per Stein.

Meanwhile, Duren may choose to accept his $9.6 million qualifying offer.

Both players showed promise last season, although their teams might be concerned about handing them hefty multi-year contracts.

Duren blossomed into an All-Star, averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 65.0 percent from the field during the regular season.

Still, he struggled throughout the Pistons' ensuing playoff run and recorded a mere 10.2 points to go along with 8.5 rebounds per game across 14 postseason contests. Duren also connected on 51.4 percent of his field goals in the playoffs.

Watson wrapped up a breakout year in which he averaged a career-high 14.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 41.1 percent from three-point territory.

Still, he was limited to just 54 appearances due to a hamstring injury and was unable to suit up in the playoffs.

The Nuggets could be hesitant to pay Watson, as they're currently the only NBA team in the second apron.

Even if he accepts the qualifying offer, Denver would face at least $112 million in luxury tax penalties next season (h/t ESPN's Bobby Marks).

Both Duren and Watson have until Oct. 1 before their qualifying offers expire, although teams and players can mutually agree to extend the deadline.