Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II exited Tuesday night's game vs. the Sacramento Kings with what the team called a right calf injury. Payton did not return to the game after exiting, and it was announced by Shams Charania of The Athletic on Wednesday evening that the versatile guard suffered a torn calf, and will be sidelined indefinitely.
This is a major blow for the Warriors, and even more disappointing for Payton, who was playing incredibly well in his important role off Golden State's bench. Having battled injuries throughout his career, Payton has dealt with different injuries in both of his stints with Golden State. Now sidelined for an extended period of time, the versatile guard will begin his rehab in hopes of returning to a contributing role again at some point this season.
Integral to Golden State's title run in 2022, Payton left in free agency to join the Portland Trail Blazers before being reacquired by the Warriors via trade. Back in the organization that helped get his career off the ground, Payton has been playing key minutes for the Warriors, and is loved by everyone in their locker room.
This injury for Payton will likely open up minutes for some of Golden State's younger guards and wings who have been in and out of the rotation to start this season.
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