How Long Will Gary Payton II Be Out?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Dec 27, 2024 4:13 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors will be without wing defender Gary Payton II for at least one week, the team announced. He strained his calf on the Christmas Day matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers and did not return.

Payton II has played two separate stints in Golden State, winning a title with them in 2022. He is only playing 13.1 minutes per game this season but is easily one of the Warriors' best defenders.

This season, the 32-year-old is averaging 4.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. He is shooting only 15.6 percent from 3-point range but is a big reason why the Warriors' bench unit is able to hold its own on defense.

Losing Payton II for a week is certainly not the end of the world, but the Warriors have only won three of their last 14 games and are struggling to remain even in the Play-In picture of the crowded Western Conference after being the number one seed heading into Thanksgiving.

With upcoming games against the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Philadelphia 76ers in the next week, missing Payton II's defense could continue to spell doom for the spiraling Warriors, who desperately need a boost of momentum heading into the New Year.

Fortunately, the strain was considered "mild" and fans can hope for a speedy return.

Check out the Inside the Warriors homepage for more news, analysis, and must-read articles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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