Golden State Warriors guard/forward Gary Payton II has sustained a torn ligament in his left thumb and will be sidelined indefinitely, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The injury deals a setback to the Warriors, who are competing for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.
Payton, 32, has been a key defensive presence for Golden State, averaging 6.6 points, 3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 14.9 minutes per game this season. His absence further complicates the Warriors’ rotation as they look to regain momentum.
The team has lost two straight games and recently dropped from sixth to seventh place in the West. They hold a 41-31 record, tied with the Clippers, but Los Angeles has overtaken them in the standings. With the postseason approaching, the loss of Payton adds to the challenges the Warriors face.
Golden State has relied on Payton for perimeter defense and versatility off the bench. His ability to guard multiple positions has been crucial, especially in high-intensity matchups.
The timeline for Payton’s recovery remains uncertain, and it is unclear if he will return before the end of the regular season. Thumb ligament injuries can vary in severity, often requiring extended time for rehabilitation.
