Peyton Watson posts 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals and 4 blocks in 37 minutes

Fantasy basketball: Watson filled the stat sheet with strong defensive work on Monday and has one more game this week. Add him where he is still available.

By Fantasy Roundup Staff · October 27, 2026

Peyton Watson posted 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 steals and 4 blocks in 37 minutes as a starter on Monday, October 26, shooting 5-for-13 from the field and 5-for-6 at the line in Cleveland's 127-125 win over Minnesota.

The line was worth 45.1 fantasy points against 28.0 a game over last season (54 games), with more minutes or shots than usual behind it. Watson's defensive work gives him value in nine-category formats, and the volume makes him relevant in points leagues as well. Cleveland has one game left this week, on Monday, with no back-to-backs.

Fantasy impact

Player by player

Peyton Watson

Watson played 37 minutes against his 29.6-minute average from last season, when he posted 14.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.1 blocks and 1.5 threes a game over 54 outings. He has started all three games this season, averaging 11.3 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 32.8 minutes. His usage rate sits at 18.2 per cent with 46.0 per cent true shooting.

The 3 steals and 4 blocks give Watson clear value in nine-category leagues, particularly with his rebounds and low turnovers. His shooting efficiency remains a drag, but the defensive contributions and extended minutes make him worth rostering. He is projected for 28 fantasy points a game in default points scoring, and Monday's performance shows he can exceed that mark when the minutes are there.

What to do

• Add Watson in shallow leagues where he remains available, especially in nine-category formats that reward his defensive contributions.

• Start Watson in his final game this week on Monday.

• Hold Watson through the lack of games next week, as his role and minutes have been solid through three outings.

Schedule this week