As the Warriors continue celebrating their latest trip to the NBA Finals, one of the team’s key postseason contributors may soon be celebrating his return to the fold.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Friday guard Gary Payton II is on track to be back as soon as June 2 when Golden State hosts Game 1. Payton, 29, has been sidelined since May 3 after suffering an elbow fracture in Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Grizzlies.
Known for his defensive prowess and high-flying dunks, Payton emerged as an instrumental piece for Golden State down the stretch after initially signing two 10-day contracts in April.