The Warriors could be getting a massive defensive reinforcement.
Since the trade deadline, they’ve been waiting for Gary Payton II to return after a tempestuous trade. There was quite a bit of drama surrounding the four-way deal, which sent James Wiseman to Detroit.
Payton II played against the Warriors the day before the trade, but upon receiving a physical, it was uncovered that he was dealing with a serious adductor/core injury that needed surgery this past offseason. He failed his medical exam and the trade reportedly came close to falling through.
Golden State followed through, but the Blazers could be fined and/or lose draft picks if an investigation shows they “a failure to disclose relevant information,” according to an Adrian Wojnarowski report.
While he reportedly could have missed up to three months, Payton II might not miss even two.
On Thursday, the Warriors provided the following update, which indicates Payton II could return as soon as Sunday:
Gary Payton II, who has not played since being acquired by the Warriors due to right adductor rehabilitation, was re-evaluated yesterday. The re-evaluation indicated Gary continues to make good progress.
He has intensified his on-court workouts over the last week and is expected to participate in the team’s practice on Saturday. Following Saturday’s practice, his status for Sunday’s game vs. Minnesota will be determined.
Golden State has been without Andrew Wiggins since the game before the All-Star Break due to a personal issue, and are without Andre Iguodala for at least another four weeks after he underwent surgery on March 21 for a fractured left wrist.
Suffice it to say, Payton II’s return could be massive for a Warriors team that has won back-to-back road games for the first time this season, and has a four-game home stretch ahead, with eight games remaining.