The Milwaukee Bucks will have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to improving their roster for next season. Among the players they can consider acquiring is Golden State Warriors veteran Gary Payton II.
After not being selected in the 2016 NBA draft, Payton joined the Houston Rockets for the Summer League that year. He signed with the Rockets but was subsequently waived after appearing in six preseason games.
Mar 31, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) shoots over Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) in the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
In 2017, Payton signed with the Milwaukee Bucks but was released during the team’s final preseason cuts. However, he was given an opportunity to return to Milwaukee on a two-way contract with their NBA G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
Following his stint with the Bucks, Payton found himself moving between different teams, including the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Lakers. However, it was during his time with the Golden State Warriors in 2021 that he truly emerged as a valuable wing player for Stephen Curry-led team. His contributions played a part in the Dubs’ success, culminating in a championship victory over the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals, where Payton earned a coveted championship ring.
Golden State Warriors Gary Payton II Named as Perfect Trade Target for Milwaukee Bucks
Apr 5, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) blocks the shot of Dallas Mavericks guard A.J. Lawson (9) during the first half at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
For a team that needs to improve defensively, Payton is a great fit for head coach Doc Rivers‘ schemes next season. As explained in an article by Brian Sampson for Forbes, the Warriors wing is an ideal trade target for Milwaukee during the offseason.
“Payton won’t be a primary offensive option, meaning Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton will need to carry the scoring load. However, Payton can thrive playing off this trio. His knack for cutting to the hoop and finding lanes in the paint complements the attention the Bucks’ Big Three will inevitably draw.
Defensively, Payton is as versatile as they come. Despite standing just 6-foot-2, his athleticism, long wingspan, and defensive IQ allow him to guard both point guards and wings effectively. While Milwaukee would still need additional size in the backcourt, Payton II would be an excellent starting point for enhancing their defensive prowess,” Sampson wrote.
Over the course of his career, Payton has averaged 5.2 points on almost 35 percent shooting from deep, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game. If acquired, his talent will allow All-Star guard Damian Lillard to focus on being setting his teammates up and have his defensive weaknesses covered. Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will also have his load on defense lightened with him on the court.
Apr 7, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) lays in a shot over Utah Jazz forward Micah Potter (25) during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-USA TODAY Sports
It remains to be seen whether Milwaukee’s front office will get him in the offseason or not. What’s certain, though, is that there is a lot of upside waiting for anyone hoping to acquire Payton from the Warriors.
Apr 9, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) reacts after the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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