The Milwaukee Bucks will have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to improving their roster for next season. Among the players they could consider signing is Golden State Warriors veteran Gary Payton II.
After he was not elected in 2016 NBA draftThat same year, Payton joined the Houston Rockets in the Summer League. He signed with the Rockets but was later released after appearing in six preseason games.
In 2017, Payton signed with the Milwaukee Bucks but was released during the team’s final preseason cuts. However, he was given the option to return to Milwaukee on a two-way contract with their NBA G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
After his career with the Bucks, Payton began moving on to various teams, including the Washington Wizards and the Los Angeles Lakers. However, it was while playing for the Golden State Warriors in 2021 that he truly emerged as a valuable winger for Stephen Curry’s team. His contributions played a role in the Dubs’ success, which culminated in a championship victory over the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals, where Payton earned a coveted championship ring.
Golden State Warriors Gary Payton II an ideal trade target for the Milwaukee Bucks
For a team that needs to improve defensively, Payton fits perfectly into head coach Doc Rivers’ plans for next season. As explained in Brian Sampson’s article for Forbes, the Warriors wing is an ideal trade target for Milwaukee this offseason.
“Payton won’t be a primary offensive option, which means Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton will have to shoulder the scoring load. However, Payton can thrive playing against this trio. His knack for cutting to the rim and finding lanes around the court complements the attention the Bucks’ Big Three will inevitably attract.
Defensively, Payton is as versatile as possible. Despite being only 6 feet 2 inches lofty, his athleticism, long wingspan and defensive IQ allow him to effectively protect both point guards and wingers. While Milwaukee would still need additional strength in the backcourt, Payton II would be a great starting point to improve their defensive prowess. Samson wrote.
Within his careerPayton averaged 5.2 points on almost 35% shooting from distance, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game. If acquired, his talents will allow All-Star guard Damian Lillard to focus on setting up teammates and covering up his defensive weaknesses. Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will also have some lightened defensive duties when he takes the court.
Time will tell if Milwaukee’s front office picks him up this offseason or not. What is certain, however, is that there are many benefits waiting for anyone who wants to acquire Payton from the Warriors.
More Wisconsin sports:
Follow us on Twitter at @WiSportsHeroics. Also check out our range here! Get 20% off with code “WSH”. To read more of our articles and keep up to date with news from ALL Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Breweries, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
Mayfield Sports Marketing
Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for a corporate appearance or product promotion. Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your chosen sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has gained a reputation as a company that invites top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about Packers or alumni appearance costs and booking fees, call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com.
