Warriors: Breaking down the roster ahead of free agency

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 16: Kevon Looney #5 and Otto Porter Jr. #32 of the Golden State Warriors speak to the media after defeating the Golden State Warriors 103-90 in Game Six of the 2022 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 16, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

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2. Gary Payton II

Payton is now a much-loved figure in the Bay, playing a crucial and courageous role as a valuable contributor in the Finals after overcoming an elbow fracture.

He could command a similar deal to Looney, putting into question whether owner Joe Lacob would want to pay both role players.

As good as Payton is, the Warriors did roll past Memphis and Dallas without him. The same might not be said if Looney had been the one to go down at that point, with the roster construction making him a far greater priority than the defensive specialist.

Warriors fans should still be optimistic that they’ll see Payton with Golden State next season, but Myers and the front office will probably give him their blessing should he be offered a contract they’re not willing to match.

Payton’s elite defensive abilities mean it’ll be hard to find a like-for-like replacement in free agency. Bruce Brown might be the closest, although it’s hard to see him leaving his role in Brooklyn.

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