3. Elfrid Payton
The Golden State Warriors are designed to run a fast brand of basketball. It is in their best interest to run the floor with athletes such as James Wiseman, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Andrew Wiggins headlining the supporting cast.
As a result, the Warriors will need to find some quality backups for Stephen Curry. After all, the two-time MVP is in his 30s and can’t afford to exhaust himself too much as the franchise relies on him to carry the dynasty into the new decade.
Elfrid Payton could be a viable second-string guard. While the Dubs have already signed Brad Wanamaker, Payton can coexist alongside the defensive-oriented Wanamaker and be the primary distributor for the second unit.
Payton is a skilled playmaker – averaging 7.2 assists per game last season. He is also a young gun, ready to play in a high-paced environment. Trading for Payton makes all the sense in the world for Golden State.