While James Wiseman has been averaging nearly a double-double (13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds) for the Detroit Pistons since the trade deadline, the Warriors haven’t got a minute out of Gary Payton II.
That could change this weekend.
The Warriors offered an update on their defensive stopper Thursday afternoon, saying Payton will practice Saturday morning and has a chance to rejoin the squad on Sunday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
This is huge news for the Dubs, who could use Payton’s perimeter defense, especially with Andrew Wiggins out indefinitely due to a family matter. Payton hasn’t played in a game since appearing with the Trail Blazers – against the Warriors – on Feb. 8, a day before he was dealt back to Golden State. He made 15 appearances with Portland but failed his physical due to a core muscle injury, though the Warriors have been patient for his return.
The West is littered with quality guards who could be hounded by Payton in the playoffs, if the Warriors reach the postseason. You’ve got guys like Jamal Murray, Ja Morant, De’Aaron Fox, Devin Booker, Chris Paul, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Kyrie Irving to worry about the perimeter, where GP2 has shown he can be a lockdown defender.
Payton also plays like a power forward despite being listed at 6-foot-3, serving as a screen man while thriving in the dunker spot and getting lobs from his teammates. He's got a great feel for the team's shooters like Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole and can play an effective two-man game with them in tight spaces. Considering his familiarity with Kerr’s system, Payton should be fully ready for the playoffs with a seven-game runway in the regular season.
