NBA trade rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to cut ties with $9.13 million star guard to bolster rotation and improve title odds

The Golden State Warriors could soon be facing a difficult roster decision, with one long-time contributor potentially nearing the end of his run in the Bay Area. According to Blue Man Hoop’s Tyler Watts, the franchise appears to be gradually moving on from Gary Payton II, the son of Hall of Fame former Los Angeles Lakers guard Gary Payton.Payton II, once a vital defensive spark for a championship team, has seen his role shrink significantly this season. With his on-court impact declining and Golden State prioritizing flexibility and youth, Watts believes the writing may already be on the wall.“The Golden State Warriors are slowly moving away from Gary Payton II,” Watts wrote Friday. “They just did this with Kevon Looney, and he wasn’t the first member of their dynasty to decline his way off the franchise.” (H/t: Sporting News)

A familiar but uncomfortable Warriors pattern

Golden State Warriors have never been sentimental when it comes to sustaining its championship window.

Over the past few seasons, the organization has quietly phased out key contributors from its dynasty era once their production dipped below rotation-level standards.

Payton now appears to be the next name on that list. Watts summed up the emotional weight of the situation, writing: “GP2 is a legend in the Bay Area, but his time with the Warriors is ending. Fans should savor the final moments while they still can.”

Gary Payton II’s rise and championship impact

Gary Payton II joined the Golden State Warriors in 2020 and quickly carved out a niche under head coach Steve Kerr.

Despite standing just 6-foot-2, the Oregon State product became one of the league’s most disruptive perimeter defenders.His impact during Golden State’s 2021–22 title run was undeniable. Payton’s on-ball pressure, help defense, and timely three-point shooting gave the Warriors a unique defensive weapon in their guard rotation, playing a meaningful role in the franchise’s fourth championship of the Stephen Curry era.

Departure, return, and diminishing role

After the championship season, Gary Payton II left Golden State Warriors following the 2021–22 campaign, only to return midway through the 2022–23 season. The reunion initially brought optimism, but his role has steadily declined since then.This season, Payton has struggled to earn consistent minutes in Kerr’s rotation. His defensive impact has not been as disruptive as in prior years, and his perimeter shooting has dipped to a level that limits his lineup versatility.

2025–26 season production snapshot

Payton’s statistical output reflects his fringe role with the team.

While his overall field goal efficiency remains respectable, the drop in three-point shooting has been a major concern for a Warriors team that relies heavily on spacing.

Why the Golden State Warriors may move on

Several factors are working against Payton as Golden State evaluates its roster: • Declining perimeter shooting efficiency • Reduced defensive impact compared to peak seasons • Limited offensive versatility in lineups needing spacing • Organizational trend of moving on from aging dynasty contributorsAs Watts noted, Payton’s nine years of NBA experience may not be enough to secure his place if his performance does not improve quickly.

What comes next for Gary Payton II

If Gary Payton II fails to elevate his play in the coming weeks, a change of scenery could be inevitable. His defensive instincts and championship experience still hold value around the league, particularly for teams seeking depth and veteran presence.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to sign $68 million New Orleans Pelicans superstar, Maxi Kleber key trade asset?For the Warriors, however, the focus appears to be shifting toward maximizing roster efficiency rather than holding onto familiar faces. As another chapter of the dynasty era quietly closes, Payton’s future in Golden State looks increasingly uncertain.