Gary Payton II returns to Warriors on $3.9 million contract

Gary Payton II once overheard NBA trade chatter attached to him in March. But the Golden State Warriors locked him in Saturday, paying him $3.9 million in a new NBA Free Agency move.

ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news on Payton II’s newest deal, which is for one year only. Golden State officially announced the move after 2 p.m. PT.

So Golden State lures back the fan favorite for his seventh season with the franchise. Payton II originally joined the franchise in 2020-21 and played one more season there before landing with the Portland Trail Blazers. But he’s currently on his second GSW stint.

Payton II improved his points per game compared to last season; going from 6.5 PPG to 7.5. He also increased his rebound production to 3.6 (averaged 3.0 in 2024-25).

This moves comes amid some notable free agency misses by the Warriors. Golden State rose as a contender for longtime rival LeBron James. There was even growing speculation of James teaming with longtime friend Steph Curry. Plus fellow Warriors star Draymond Green performed his part at trying to recruit James.

Yet Golden State is overhearing another potential reunion. This one involving Kevin Durant, as the Warriors monitor his situation with the Houston Rockets. Durant signed with Golden State as a free agent in 2016, widely considered one of the more stunning signings in NBA history. But Durant went on to win his first NBA Finals title playing alongside Curry, Green and Klay Thompson.

Meanwhile, Payton II hands the Warriors assurance that they’ll have veteran leadership next to Curry back in the room.

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