Setback for Warriors: Gary Payton II Sidelined Again
In today’s game against the Magic, the Golden State Warriors faced another setback as Gary Payton II (GP2), who had recently returned from injury, had to leave the court early due to a thigh injury.
In the previous game against the Mavericks, GP2 had just made his comeback after a month-long absence due to a calf injury.
GP2’s Frustrating Fall: Warriors Coach Kerr Laments Setback
During a defensive play in the frontcourt, GP2 experienced a sudden weakness in his left leg, resulting in a fall.
Reports from Warriors media suggest that he left the court feeling quite frustrated, even throwing his headband into the crowd on his way back to the locker room.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed regret for GP2, stating, “I feel sorry for him, for our team too, but mainly for him. He worked hard to get back on the court, and he’s crucial for our team.”
Unfortunate Recurrence for Gary Payton II
Gary Payton II, also known as GP2, returned to the court for only the second time since his recovery, playing against the Magic yesterday.
Unfortunately, he had to exit the game early due to a left leg muscle strain. Reports suggest that he will be sidelined for several weeks, dealing a significant blow to the Warriors.
GP2’s Injury-Plagued Journey: A Timeline of Setbacks
Last November, GP2 took a month off due to a right calf injury and only returned at the end of the year against the Mavericks.
In the offseason, he signed a three-year, $28 million contract with the Trail Blazers, but injuries limited him to just 22 games that season. This season, he has played only 16 games, averaging 5.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals.
The Glove’s Struggles Continue
“The Glove,” Gary Payton II, a member of the Warriors’ 2022 championship team, is a vital defensive asset for the Bay Area squad. However, his health has been a persistent concern.
His return to the Warriors last season was delayed until the end of March due to failed medical exams during a trade.
GP2’s Season of Struggles: From Calf Tear to Recent Setback
This season, he suffered a right calf muscle tear, leading to over a month of rehabilitation. Despite making a comeback on December 31, he played only two games before this latest setback.
In today’s game against the Magic, “The Glove” collapsed under the basket while defending, grabbing his left leg in visible pain.
GP2’s Injury Casts Shadow Despite Warriors’ Win
The Warriors confirmed that he strained his left leg muscle, preventing him from returning to the court. Despite playing only 11 minutes and scoring 2 points with 4 rebounds, he had a positive plus-minus of +10.
Mixed Emotions: Warriors Triumph Amidst GP2’s Injury Blow
Despite a victory against the Magic with Stephen Curry’s 36-point performance, the news of “The Glove’s” injury dampened the team’s spirits.
Coach Kerr expressed deep regret for GP2, hoping for a swift recovery and minimal time on the sidelines. The team now faces the challenge of playing without GP2, a significant loss for the Warriors.(LVBET)