Golden State Warriors outplaying value: Gary Payton II
The Warriors received an excellent performance from Gary Payton II in Game 5. A player that almost was applying to be in the team’s video department, Payton II has come a long way, having been cut by multiple teams, even Golden State, throughout his career.
Payton II, the son of Gary Payton Sr., one of the best defenders in the NBA has ever known, has locked up Jayson Tatum. However, it’s been his offensive efficiency, not his defense, which he’s known for, that has stood out.
Payton II is averaging 7.3 points per game and shooting 69% from the field over his four-game stint. He’s also hauling down 3.3 rebounds and dishing out 1.3 assists per game in just 18.2 minutes of action.
Cracking the Warriors’ playoff rotation is not easy, let alone managing to thrive against another one of the league’s best organizations. Payton II has earned himself a payday with his defensive tenacity and efficiency.
Although the Dubs will hope to retain him, after these NBA Finals, his value, currently earning $1.9 million, is going to skyrocket.