The Golden State Warriors are reloading their roster with familiar faces and veteran experience. Guards De’Anthony Melton and Gary Payton II have both committed to sign with the team for the upcoming season, joining veteran big man Al Horford, who announced his commitment on Sunday.
For Melton, the move represents a chance to resume unfinished business. The combo guard began last season with Golden State after signing a one-year contract, but his year was derailed just weeks in when he tore his ACL in mid-November.
Before the injury, Melton showed promise in six appearances, averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.2 steals in 20.2 minutes per game. He was later traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of roster maneuvering, but now returns to the Bay Area with a clean slate.
Payton, meanwhile, continues to embody continuity for the Warriors. The guard is set to return for his sixth straight season with the franchise, carving out a reputation as one of the team’s defensive anchors.
Last season, he averaged 6.5 points and 3.0 rebounds across 15 minutes per game, often sparking Golden State with his on-ball pressure and energy.
The additions of Melton, Payton, and Horford further strengthen Golden State’s depth, but the timing of the signings hinges on one unresolved situation: Jonathan Kuminga’s contract.
The forward, a restricted free agent, has until Wednesday, October 1, to decide whether to sign his $8.6 million qualifying offer. The Warriors could also negotiate a new deal with him or work out a sign-and-trade if no agreement is reached.
De'Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II Commit To Signing With Warriors https://t.co/Gnmp8JNMu9
— RealGM (@RealGM) September 29, 2025
