You could tell from his gait and his reaction Tuesday night that Gary Payton II was heading for an extended time on the sidelines.
One game after returning from a month-long absence due to a calf strain, Payton II injured his left hamstring against the Orlando Magic.
He limped off the court, nearly threw his headband in frustration, then untucked his jersey as he hobbled down the tunnel. He was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the game.
According to Shams Charania, Payton II will miss "several weeks" with the left hamstring strain.
It's brutal news for Payton II, who was magnificent on the Warriors' championship run in 2022, but who dealt with a lingering core injury last season and consistent injury run-ins. His length, defensive acumen and ability to switch makes him a massive asset on defense and in transition.
It's an injury that may only be beneficial to Moses Moody, who did not see the floor on Monday, and may scoop up some of the lost minutes from Payton II, especially while Draymond Green remains indefinitely suspended.