Warriors' Gary Payton II gets pivotal injury update...

Warriors’ Gary Payton II gets pivotal injury update

An important member of the Golden State Warriors’ rotation is about to return.

Due to a strained right calf, Gary Payton II has been out since November 28. However, the team revealed on Thursday

that he is making enough progress in his rehabilitation to be cleared to participate in some practice

activities with the Dubs. Next week, the Warriors will give him another assessment.

Since, he has missed nine competitions. Payton II has played in 14 games and is averaging 5.9 points

and 3.1 rebounds per night. The 31-year-old is more regarded as a defensive pillar than as someone

they can get because Draymond Green is facing an indefinite suspension at the moment.

GP2 is an unwaveringly noticeable defender with a tough exterior.

Since the Payton II injury, rookie Brandon Podziemski’s playing time has significantly increased.

Over the past few weeks, he has played in excess of thirty minutes multiple times. Averaging 8.3 points, 5.0 rebounds,

and 2.6 assists while shooting 40% from long range, he has also performed admirably. However,

Podziemski did leave the game earlier the other night due to back pain against the Boston Celtics.

While the Warriors will undoubtedly be happy to get GP2 back when he’s ready, Steve Kerr will appreciate

having some options off his bench. Before their game on Friday against the Washington Wizards,

the Dubs are enjoying a three-game winning run.