The Golden State Warriors might be parting ways with one of their most loved players—Gary Payton II’s future with the team is officially in doubt as free agency looms.
According to NBC Sports Bay Area, Gary Payton II is “looking doubtful” to return to Golden State in free agency. The 32-year-old guard, who played a pivotal role in the team’s 2022 championship run, will become an unrestricted free agent on Monday.
“It’s looking doubtful,” one source told NBC. “Golden State still likes him… but they have a lot of moving parts,” another added, noting the Jonathan Kuminga situation could impact Payton’s future.
Payton, a fan-favorite and point-of-attack defensive specialist, has spent five of his nine NBA seasons with Golden State. Last year, he averaged 6.5 points on 57.4% shooting across 62 games (11 starts) for the Warriors, while battling lingering injuries.
Injuries & Uncertainty Cloud Return
There’s no question Payton brings value. The Gary Payton II we saw during the 2022 Finals was a game-changer. This past season, when healthy, he still showed flashes—providing elite defense on stars like Damian Lillard and Devin Booker. But the issue has been availability.
Payton missed 20 games last season and 38 the year prior. Add in a $9.1 million salary and an upcoming free agency class, and the Warriors are facing tough choices.
Warriors Facing Tough Decisions to Clear Space for the Future
Golden State is already juggling big questions. Kuminga’s restricted free agency looms, Kevon Looney is another key name with an unclear future, and the team is widely expected to pursue an elite perimeter defender this summer.
With Payton likely to command mid-level exception offers from other contenders, the Warriors could be forced to look elsewhere.
Could a Rookie Step In?
If Payton walks, there may be a golden opportunity for second-round pick Will Richard. The former University of Florida guard is a 6-foot-5 wing with size, athleticism, and defensive upside—fitting the exact mold Golden State covets.
NBA free agency opens Monday at 6 p.m. Eastern. The Warriors’ decisions on Payton, Looney, and Kuminga could determine what direction they take next—and whether a fan-favorite defender has already played his last game in the Bay.
