While Steph Curry has helped push the Golden State Warriors to victories in five of their last seven contests, there’s been a new face in the backcourt.
After earning G League Defensive Player of the Year honors, the Warriors signed Gary Payton II to a 10-day contract. In five games with Golden State, Payton II is averaging 2.4 points on 57.1% shooting from the floor with 1.4 rebounds and one steal in 3.7 minutes per contest.
During Golden State’s thrilling battle against the Boston Celtics on Saturday night, Payton II provided a solid defensive effort in eight minutes off the bench in the final game of his 10-day deal.
According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, the Warriors are planning to bring Payton II back on a second 10-day deal with his contract coming to an end.
Via @anthonyVslater on Twitter:
The Warriors plan to sign Gary Payton II to a second 10-day contract, per source. He was a helpful defensive injection into the rotation last night in Boston.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 18, 2021
With Eric Paschall, James Wiseman, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Juan Toscano-Anderson dealing with injuries, the Warriors could use another option off the bench to close their current five-game road swing.
After a tight loss to the Celtics on Saturday night, the Warriors will meet the Eastern Conference-leading Philadelphia 76ers on Monday.
