Golden State Warriors: Gary Payton can play key role in playoffs
By Tony Pesta
The Golden State Warriors are prepping for the 2022 NBA Playoffs and their secret weapon, Gary Payton II, could end up playing a key role.
There are a few storms brewing in the NBA. Most notably for the Warriors is the potential return of Jamal Murray, who despite missing a year of basketball, could pose an interesting threat for the Dubs in round one of the playoffs.
Particularly, because Stephen Curry will have to find his groove by returning from injury himself. With this battle between two dynamic guards shaping up, Payton could be an important asset to have.
The Golden State Warriors will be able to count on Gary Payton II to carry a bit of the backcourt load during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.
Murray might not be himself but there is no reason to underestimate his value alongside Nikola Jokic. Using Payton as a deterrent, and more importantly, a reliever for Curry on the defensive end is something the Dubs will consider.
Payton has been one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA this season. Taking after his Hall of Fame father, GP2 forced his way into the Dubs’ rotation by stimying opposing ball handlers and converting easy looks on the other end.
He’s been an energy guy all year long and now seems like as good a time as ever for Payton to provide a spark. He hasn’t been as potent recently due to a nagging knee injury but the ramp-up to the playoffs will grant him a chance to bolster himself.
Of course, Payton’s value goes deeper than just the first round. A meeting with Phoenix, where two All-Star guards in Devin Booker and Chris Paul take stage could mean heavy minutes for Payton. Donavan Mitchell and Ja Morant are two other names the Dubs could clash with.
The story is not finished for one of the NBA’s biggest underdogs, Payton could be huge this postseason for Golden State with his defensive prowess on the perimeter.