– Golden State Warriors had unsuccessful offseason attempts with players Paul George and Chris Paul.
– Klay Thompson is likely to leave the Warriors for another team.
– Gary Payton II’s defensive skill could benefit the Los Angeles Lakers.
– Warriors may consider a youthful approach with the Lakers’ Max Christie as a trading option.
The Shake-up in the Bay Area
Off-season drama for the Golden State Warriors is heating up. The team’s early attempts to sign Paul George fell through when he inked a max deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. Moreover, they decided against trading Chris Paul and his sizable $30 million salary. Klay Thompson seems set to leave the Bay and could be playing elsewhere as soon as July 1. The financial upside for the Warriors is substantial, but this puts their roster in a precarious position with a likely talent deficit.
Assessing the Options
This situation forces the Warriors to carefully strategize their next move. Limited and expensive free agent options are on the table. But, with a roster filled with players of varying NBA experience levels, the Warriors might need to deal some assets and plan for the future. A potential trade solution comes in a pitch from CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn who suggests sending Gary Payton II to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Payton II’s Potential for the Lakers
The Lakers have won the NBA title in 2020 thanks to their superior defense strengths. However, they now need accurate deep shooting to fortify their winning potential. “The Lakers have been looking for an Alex Caruso replacement. Payton is the league’s closest counterpart as an exceptional off-ball offensive player and barely passable shooter,” wrote Quinn.
Payton’s impressive defensive rating of 108.1 proves his efficiency, outdoing the league average of 116.1. Even though he measured marginally less effective with a rating of 113.0 last year, Payton still sits well above average among perimeter defenders.
Overcoming Setbacks
Payton, now 31, has only played 22 and 44 games in the last two seasons due to injuries. Yet, when fit for the 2021-22 season, he contributed significantly to the Warriors’ championship. Post an injury, he returned to play an important role against the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals that the Warriors won in six games.
Alternatives for the Warriors
Depending on their cap construction after Thompson’s potential departure, the Warriors may not need a 1:1 financial deal for Payton. However, if both Paul and Thompson leave, it leaves Warriors with a heavy decision on how to compete against the top Western Conference teams.
A Winning Strategy
Stephen Curry is still in the top 10 players, and Draymond Green qualifies as a top 10 defender. Yet, it might not be enough for the Warriors to contend in the stacked West. They could hold onto Payton with his $9.1 million salary if they wish to chase wins now. However, if they choose to hit reset, Max Christie of the Lakers seems a promising choice with youthful potential.
Lakers’ Bonus
The Lakers recently signed Christie for a four-year deal worth $32 million. While their focus is on a winning strategy, which makes Payton a viable choice, Christie may prove superfluous. If the Warriors are looking towards a younger roster, this deal could well be a beneficial proposition.