It was announced by Shams Charania of The Athletic on Wednesday that Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II is expected to miss several weeks with a hamstring strain. The Warriors confirmed that disappointing news in an announcement on Thursday that read the following:
"Warriors guard Gary Payton II, who exited Tuesday's game vs. Orlando with 3:49 remaining in the third quarter due to injury, underwent an MRI yesterday. The MRI confirmed that Payton II suffered a grade 2 strain of his left hamstring. He will be re-evaluated in three (3) weeks."
While the re-evaluation will happen in three weeks, the of course does not mean Payton will be cleared to play at that time. Especially given his recent injury history, it's likely the Warriors will remain cautious with their versatile guard in hopes of having him ready for the most important stretch of the season later in the year.
Injury luck has not been on Payton's side the last two seasons, which is especially unfortunate given how well he has played when available. A key piece to Golden State's bench, Payton will be missed while he is out. That said, there is time for Payton to rehab this injury and come back with plenty of time before the postseason to help the Warriors make their push towards the playoffs.
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