Gary Payton II Commits to Warriors Return, Valued for Defensive Prowess and Curry Chemistry

Free agent Gary Payton II has committed to sign a deal to return to the Golden State Warriors for the 2025-26 season, ESPN's Shams Charania reported Sunday. This reunion follows his 2022 departure for a three-year, $28 million Portland contract the Warriors couldn't match, before being traded back. Despite a potentially reduced role, Payton's value remains high. Last season, he played 62 games (most since 2021-22 championship run) but a career-low 15 MPG as a Warrior. Coach Steve Kerr values his unique 6-foot-2 defensive versatility against top scorers, though his 110.1 defensive rating was noted, he ranked fifth in deflections per 75 possessions and fourth-best wing stopper by D-LEBRON. Steph Curry consistently champions Payton's importance, citing their strong on-court chemistry, evidenced by a 5.2 net rating in 53 games last season (117.8 offensive, 112.7 defensive), comparable to the Curry-Jimmy Butler duo. Payton, who has faced injury concerns (on Rick Celebrini's list), holds career Warriors averages of 6.2 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists over 194 games (59.2% FG, 35.3% 3P). He will add guard depth behind Curry, Brandin Podziemski, and Buddy Hield, and his personality is cherished by the franchise and community.