3 unforeseen Warriors that could step up with Gary Payton II sidelined

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MAY 01: Tyus Jones #21 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against Gary Payton II #0 of the Golden State Warriors during Game One of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on May 01, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MAY 01: Tyus Jones #21 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against Gary Payton II #0 of the Golden State Warriors during Game One of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on May 01, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. 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 Justin Ford/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Warriors player who could step up: Damion Lee

Damion Lee has been getting spotty minutes for the Warriors, and while he’s a far better shooter and scoring option than Payton II, he brings far less defensively which is where Golden State finds itself struggling.

Lee has played 11 minutes in the two games against Memphis, and he has scored just 2 points, hitting his only attempt. During the regular season, Lee shot 44% from the field and 34% from deep.

Lee is averaging just 5 minutes per game and scoring 2 points per game in the playoffs. He’s been among the several cut out of the rotation as head coach Steve Kerr has limited it to just about 8 players.

A proven scorer with a Dubs team that struggled mightily offensively in Game 2, Lee could provide a spark on that end of the court.

You know what you’re getting with Lee, and he’s good enough offensively to help fill some of the holes in production. Golden State would just take a hit defensively with Lee over a player like Payton II, but at this point, it may be a move they have no choice but to do.