The Atlanta Hawks have emerged with interest in a sign-and-trade with the Denver Nuggets for restricted free agent Peyton Watson. The Nuggets have signaled they intend to match any offer sheet for Watson, but they would be open to discussing sign-and-trade scenarios.

However, the Nuggets are maintaining an asking price similar to what the Los Angeles Lakers sent to the Utah Jazz for Walker Kessler for two unprotected first round picks and two pick swaps.

The price point the Nuggets have set for Watson has been prohibitive for both the Hawks and Los Angeles Clippers at this point. The Clippers remain interested in Watson at a contract in the $25 million-plus range he and agent Rich Paul are seeking.

The Brooklyn Nets have enough cap space to sign Watson to an offer sheet, but they are currently considering other pathways with that money.

Watson emerged as one of Denver's most productive players last season, averaging 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.1 blocks over 54 games. Following Nikola Jokic's knee injury in late December, Watson posted a career-best 17-game stretch before suffering a hamstring strain in February that limited him for the remainder of the season and playoffs.

Paul has had several restricted free agents go deep into the offseason before a resolution is reached such as Tristan Thompson and Eric Bledsoe.