With the injury to Gary Payton II, the contract for the Golden State Warriors could be reconsidered. Days after the trade became official, it appeared that a failed medical could cause the trade to be re-evaluated.
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, a four-team deal involving Payton could be in jeopardy. That was after the medical reports came in and the core muscle injury could sideline him for up to three months. That is, if the trade pushes through.
The Warriors waived James Wiseman, sent him to the Detroit Pistons and received three conditional future second-round picks from the Atlanta Hawks. Atlanta will acquire Saddiq Bey from the Pistons, while the Portland Trail Blazers will receive Kevin Knox and five future second-round picks.
Due to injury, Payton’s debut with the Blazers came late in the season. He has dressed just 15 times for Portland this season, making his debut after the New Year.
With Gary Payton II injured, he is unlikely to be effective for the Warriors this season
Gary Payton II was unable to re-sign with the Warriors during the offseason due to a lack of cap space. However, with a few changes in the lineup, it looks like he will be able to play under Steve Kerr this season. With his addition, there could be a chance for the Warriors to improve their defense.
Last season he was one of the team’s best defenders on the ball. Despite standing just 6-foot-3, Payton II was usually tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. His defense and ability to play above the rim were important to Golden State’s success in their previous campaign.
If the trade goes through, the Warriors won’t be able to use him as well. Based on reports from several sources, Payton could miss three months with his injury.
Also read: Gary Payton opens up about his relationship with Gary Payton II: “Don’t think about being Gary Payton because there’s only one Gary Payton”
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