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The Golden State Warriors have gotten the chance to look at tons of players this season. While Stephen Curry's incredible season is a huge reason for their success, so are the contributions they're getting from their supporting cast.
One such player is Gary Payton II. The son of the NBA legend is averaging 7.8 points per game, shooting 64.2 percent from the field and bringing the energy as a rim runner and defender. Golden State head coach Steve Kerr is smitten by the 29-year-old's skill set and made it clear that he wants the Warriors to keep him for the remainder of the season.
Steve Kerr has officially confirmed it 😂 pic.twitter.com/nLTtbzISto
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 7, 2022
Kerr touted Payton's variety of skills and said that he would play him in big games. The Warriors signed him to two 10-day contracts before signing him to a longer deal. Payton's contract is only a partial guarantee but will become fully guaranteed on January 10th.
Payton played 10 games for the Warriors last season and has played for three other teams before then, though not for very long. Now, it seems like he can call Golden State his home for at least this season.
With the way that Golden State's season has been going and how Payton has been playing, the decision to keep him is pretty clear-cut. Although he only plays 16.8 minutes per game, he impacts several aspects of the game when he plays. He has been showing more confidence in his 3-point shot as the season goes on.
Payton may see a dip in playing time when Klay Thompson returns and with rookie guard Moses Moody looking promising. Still, he should get playing time due to the energy he brings on both ends. Kerr will certainly look his way in big moments.
