EXCLUSIVE: How Lakers Could Turn Warriors' Loss Into Their BIGGEST Defensive Upgrade!
The Golden State Warriors face the potential loss of fan-favorite guard Gary Payton II to free agency, with the Los Angeles Lakers emerging as a likely destination for the defensive specialist.
According to Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area, Payton's "return to Golden State is in serious jeopardy," with sources describing his re-signing as "looking doubtful"13. The 32-year-old guard will become an unrestricted free agent on Monday, creating an opportunity for rival teams to pursue his services.
Payton played a crucial role in the Warriors' 2022 NBA championship run before signing a three-year, $27 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers. Golden State reacquired him via trade in February 2023, and he has remained their primary point-of-attack defender since.
During the 2024-25 season, Payton appeared in 62 games while averaging 6.5 points on 57.4% shooting from the field. However, his offensive limitations, particularly his 32.6% three-point shooting, combined with recurring injury issues, have complicated his market value.
The Lakers represent an attractive destination for Payton, who previously played 11 games for Los Angeles during the 2017-18 season2. The franchise ranked 17th defensively last season and desperately needs perimeter defenders to complement their superstar duo of Luka Dončić and LeBron James.
Trevor Lane of Lakers Nation has identified Payton as a potential veteran minimum target, alongside fellow Warriors free agent Kevon Looney and former Golden State guards De'Anthony Melton and Chris Paul.
The Warriors' reluctance to re-sign Payton stems from multiple factors, including salary cap constraints and the recent drafting of Florida guard Will Richard with the 56th overall pick. The 22-year-old rookie represents a younger, cheaper alternative at the defensive guard position.
Golden State's decision on Payton may depend on their resolution of the Jonathan Kuminga contract situation, as the organization manages multiple moving parts in their roster construction14. The potential loss of Payton to a Pacific Division rival would be particularly painful given his championship pedigree and beloved status among Warriors fans.