The Golden State Warriors are headed to the 2022 NBA Finals. Fortunately for them, they are also getting reinforcements as they advance in the NBA playoffs. Gary Payton II is finally nearing a return to the court.
Payton fractured his elbow after getting fouled hard by Memphis Grizzlies wing Dillon Brooks during the Western Conference Semifinals. Although Payton no longer holds a grudge against Brooks, the injury worried the Warriors and left them without a key rotation piece in the Western Conference Finals.
Now, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that Payton could be back in action for the Warriors as early as Game 1 of the Finals, which takes place on Thursday.
Warriors guard Gary Payton II (elbow fracture) is expected to return in the NBA Finals, sources say. Here's how soon: pic.twitter.com/6TaaQri0Wc
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) May 27, 2022
Payton played 15.9 minutes per game in this year's NBA playoffs, averaging 6.1 points and making 16 of his 22 field goals across seven games. His defense will be huge whether the Warriors face the Boston Celtics or Miami Heat in the Finals.
After going through more rigorous workouts while the Warriors beat the Dallas Mavericks in the Conference Finals, he should be ready to go.
Additionally, the Warriors could be adding more depth pieces once the NBA Finals roll around. Otto Porter Jr. should be able to return after dealing with a foot injury, but Andre Iguodala may have a tougher time returning due to a neck ailment.
With nearly a week of rest ahead of him, Payton will have plenty of time to get acclimated to the court again before the Warriors try for their fourth championship in eight years.
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