Warriors star to miss at least three more weeks

Warriors guard/forward Gary Payton II is out at least three weeks — which is when he’ll be reevaluated — after suffering a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on Tuesday against Orlando, Golden State announced in a press release.

In just his second game back from a right calf strain that sidelined him for 13 contests, Payton exited Tuesday’s win in the third quarter due to the hamstring injury. He didn’t return to the game.

The injury occurred as Payton was defending Magic guard Cole Anthony while he brought the ball up the court. The Warriors guard fell awkwardly as he looked to avoid a screen set by Paolo Banchero, via NBC Sports Bay Area.

Payton has dealt with numerous injuries throughout his career, including being limited to just 22 games in 2022-23. The 31-year-old defensive stalwart was a key member of Golden State’s championship run in 2021-22.

Payton is earning $8.7M this season and holds a $9.1M player option for 2024-25.