Former Warriors guard Gary Payton II finalizing offer with Trail Blazers: report

Ever since Gary Payton II went undrafted out of Oregon State in 2016, the now 29-yr-outdated bounced around the league and G League generally as a fringe participant, signing 10-day and two-way promotions before he found his dwelling with the Warriors this time.

But this absolutely free agency interval has been different for Payton, who’s penned 1 heck of an underdog tale despite getting the namesake of the NBA’s biggest stars in the ’90s.

Payton, no for a longer period at the liberty of NBA franchises staying keen to consider a chance on him, was ready to dictate the sector for himself. And now, he’s finalizing a a few-yr, $28 million deal with the Portland Trail Blazers, The Athletic’s Shams Charania claimed Thursday night.

The Warriors seen Payton as a best target for absolutely free agency and one particular of their best perimeter defenders, but were being reportedly unwilling to match the worthwhile offer you the Path Blazers set together.

Payton provided a important spark off the bench for the Warriors previous year, his first whole marketing campaign in the NBA, as his presence by yourself adjusted the flow of game titles. Recognised for his ball-hounding protection, Payton served as a defensive ace for Golden Condition.

This payday for Payton is nicely deserved.

Immediately after getting reduce for the duration of teaching camp, the Warriors resolved to convey him back again in October to fill the 15th location on their roster.

Given that then, Payton blossomed into one particular of Golden State’s most important contributors off the bench and will be a vital piece for the Path Blazers relocating ahead. He led the Warriors in deflections (180) and steals (96) this season while taking part in an typical of 17.6 minutes for each recreation. In 71 games, he averaged 7.1 details on 61.6% capturing and 3.5 rebounds.

For now, the Warriors will have to uncover a different acceptable defensive-minded guard who can fill the void still left by Payton.