Gary Payton II, the 32-year-old son of NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton, may be departing from the Golden State Warriors after several successful seasons. Having spent the majority of his last five years with the Warriors, except for a short period with the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2022-23 season, Payton has been a key defensive player for Golden State. His contributions helped the Warriors maintain a strong defensive identity, but recent rumors suggest he could be moving on.
The speculation about Payton’s next destination has stirred reactions from NBA fans, especially concerning his physical condition and performance decline. Some observers pointed out Payton’s ongoing injuries and slowed pace, which has affected his defensive effectiveness against players like Fred VanVleet.
“He’s 32 and always hurt. He’s lost a step, too, and was getting beaten by Fred VanVleet. His best days are behind him, and Dubs should move on.”
—Fan comment
Others expressed skepticism about Payton joining a new team due to his injury struggles.
“I’m sure he’ll do great being hurt somewhere else.”
—Fan comment
Speculation Grows About Payton Joining Lakers as Backup to Bronny James
In the midst of this uncertainty, some fans have speculated that Payton could become the backup point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, a team that includes Bronny James, son of LeBron James. With the Lakers seeking experienced players to support their developing roster, Payton’s defensive skills could be valuable in a secondary role.
Fans encouraged Lakers management to consider Payton seriously.
“Lakers backup point behind Bronny.”
—Fan comment
“Rob Pelinka better be on the phone with him right now.”
—Fan comment
Other commentators compared Payton’s situation to Lance Stephenson’s tenure with the Indiana Pacers, humorously suggesting Payton’s jersey rarely changes teams for long.
“GP2 to the Warriors is like what Lance was for the Pacers. Can’t put on another jersey.”
—Fan comment
“Then some team wastes money on him, then when the Warriors need defense they’ll get him back for peanuts. We know this trick.”
—Fan comment
Warriors Face Potential Loss of Jonathan Kuminga in Free Agency
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are facing potential changes beyond Payton’s departure. Jonathan Kuminga, a promising young player, remains a restricted free agent with his future hanging in the balance. After the Warriors’ second-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, questions about Kuminga’s role and contract prospects have intensified.
The Warriors have the option to make a qualifying offer to Kuminga, which allows them to match other teams’ proposals. However, sources indicate that Kuminga is seeking a contract paying over $30 million per year, an amount the Warriors appear unlikely to meet.
NBA insider Brett Siegel reported that Kuminga’s desired salary exceeds Golden State’s current offer. The team has extended a qualifying offer of $7.9 million, which is expected to be declined.
Teams such as the Brooklyn Nets and Sacramento Kings are poised to present more lucrative deals, potentially luring Kuminga away from Golden State.
Implications for the Warriors and Lakers Moving Forward
The potential departure of Gary Payton II and Jonathan Kuminga represents a significant moment for the Warriors, as they seek to balance retaining defensive strength and managing salary cap challenges. Losing both players in free agency could create roster gaps, especially in defense and wing versatility.
For the Lakers, adding Payton as a backup point guard behind Bronny James could bolster their guard rotation and provide crucial defensive presence. Payton’s experience and familiarity with championship-level play may offer the Lakers tactical benefits, though concerns about his health remain.
Fans continue to voice their strong opinions on these developments, revealing the tension and uncertainty surrounding team compositions ahead of the new NBA season.