The Warriors are set to take on the Raptors on Thursday night, hoping to keep their momentum going. Sitting at No. 6 in the West with a 40-29 record, Golden State has been on fire, winning eight of their last nine games, including a big victory over the Bucks on Tuesday. A major contributor to their recent success has been Gary Payton II.
Just days ago, he put up a career-high 26 points in a dominant performance against the Blazers, proving his value on both ends of the floor. His energy and defense have been crucial in keeping the Warriors locked in during this late-season push.
But just hours before tipoff, the Warriors revealed that Payton has been ruled out with left knee soreness, a tough blow for a team looking to stay hot.
Gary Payton II is out for the Warriors tonight vs Raptors. Left knee soreness.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) March 20, 2025
Payton might not be the flashiest name on the Warriors’ roster, but he’s been a rock-solid contributor all season. The 32-year-old guard has played in 56 games, starting 10, and he’s made the most of his minutes. He’s averaging 6.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.3 steals while shooting an impressive 57.8% from the field. His three-point shot? Not exactly lights-out at 32.2%, but his impact goes way beyond the numbers.
Lately, he’s been turning it up a notch. He dropped 18 against the Nuggets, put up 16 on the Nets, and added 15 in a battle with the 76ers. Whether it’s his defensive hustle or timely buckets, Payton has been doing whatever the Warriors need. And let’s be real—every contender needs a guy like him.
This is a developing story…
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