After a failed physical delayed Gary Payton II’s official reunion in San Francisco, the Golden State Warriors officially went through with the four-team trade to bring back the tough defensive guard.
However, his debut on the court with his former teammates will be on hold. An exam revealed Payton II still has a core muscle injury and he’s currently listed as out for Golden State’s upcoming game against the Washington Wizards on Monday due to right adductor soreness.
On Monday, Bob Myers revealed Payton II’s injury will be re-evaluated in a month. The Warriors are hoping to get Payton II back before their final regular season run to the playoffs. Following his failed physical with the Warriors, initial reports stated he could miss up to three months with a core muscle injury.
Via @anthonyVslater on Twitter:
Bob Myers said Gary Payton II will be evaluated in a month. He said Warriors hope to get him back "pre-playoffs."
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 13, 2023
Payton II has already missed 35 games this season with the Trail Blazers. During his 15-game stint with Portland, Payton II averaged 4.1 points on 58.5% shooting from the floor with 2.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.1 steals in 17 minutes per contest.
With Payton II and Steph Curry both missing time due to injury, the Warriors will have a thin rotation going forward. Jordan Poole, Klay Thompson, Donte DiVincenzo, Ty Jerome and Moses Moody will likely see a bulk of the minutes in the backcourt.
Over the next month, the Warriors are slated to play 13 games, including contests against the Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns.
The Warriors are scheduled to host the Washington Wizards on Monday night at San Francisco’s Chase Center. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. PT.
This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
