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Golden State Warriors: 3 Realistic options for final roster spot

By Tony Pesta

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 03: Isaiah Thomas #4 of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Golden State Warriors in the first half at Capital One Arena on February 03, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 03: Isaiah Thomas #4 of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Golden State Warriors in the first half at Capital One Arena on February 03, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors can trust Gary Payton II

If continuity is important for the Golden State Warriors (which it should be considering how many roster changes they’ve seen in recent years) then the familiarity Gary Payton II brings to the team should be valuable.

Unlike other names on this list, Payton has spent time with the Warriors. Well, at least a little.

Payton signed an initial 10-day contract with the Dubs back in April of 2021. His relentless hustle (and a lack of bodies for the Warriors due to injuries) led Payton to another 10-day contract before finally signing a more extensive two-way deal in May.

In his brief few weeks with the team, Paton posted 2.5 points and 1.1 rebounds in just 4.0 minutes of playing time per game. Though, he did shoot 10-of-13 from the field.

Payton’s success comes from being a high-energy defender who takes smart shots at the basket. He has a surprising amount of bounce for an undersized guard and is not afraid to go for a highlight-reel play. Despite this aggression, Payton has shot above 40 percent for his career.

There are obvious limitations to his game. Payton is not a great shooter and he is an underwhelming passer. Yet, his prowess as a defender could make him a reliable backup for Curry. And, as mentioned, it helps to have a player who has already been around the team.

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