Cavs acquiring Peyton Watson and trading Max Strus to Clippers in 4-team deal, AP source says

The Cleveland Cavaliers are acquiring restricted free agent Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets as part of a four-team trade, while sending Max Strus to the Los Angeles Clippers. Watson, who spent his first four NBA seasons with Denver, will sign a four-year contract with Cleveland worth $88 million, including a player option and trade kicker. The deal was reported on Wednesday night, August 20, 2026.