Warriors salary space is stretched, 2022 champion guard may leave this summer

After getting Butler through the trade, the Warriors determined Curry's core lineup in his last peak period. During this offseason, the management team with Dunleavy as the core needs to further optimize the lineup. With insufficient salary space, 2022 champion Payton is likely to become a victim.

Peton II will become a free agent this offseason, and it is difficult for the Warriors to issue a contract for him to keep him in Golden State. "The Warriors like Payton very much and have a certain possibility of returning, but with the uncertainty of Kumingga's contract renewal, Payton will most likely leave the Warriors next season."

Last season, due to injury issues, Payton's performance was ups and downs, and he played in 62 games for the Warriors. The high-order data per 36 minutes is 15.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2 steals. Although the high-order data looks good, its functionality has declined significantly compared with 2022. The shortcomings in the offensive end make it difficult for him to become a stable lineup rotation.

With his outstanding performance in 2022, Payton received a three-year contract worth $26.1 million. Last season, Payton's salary reached $9.1 million, and it's hard for the Warriors to keep him with this level of contract this summer. For the Warriors, Kumingga and Looney are players with higher priority.

According to NBC Bay Area reporter Monte Poole, if Payton leaves this offseason, the Warriors are likely to look for another defender with excellent ball defense in the free agent market to support the team's defensive system in the backcourt.