Warriors fans watching the game against the Hornets had one question on their minds: what happened to Gary Payton II? It was only recently that the player had returned to the playing lineup after dealing with issues from an injured ankle. With the Dubs currently maintaining a good streak of wins, there was no better time for Payton to be a part of the team than now. Unfortunately, if this recent incident was an indication, Gary’s availability for future games may soon be under question.

According to reports, Gary Payton II has now left the game after suffering a serious collision with LaMelo Ball. Ball ran into Payton as he drove to the rim with five minutes left in the 3 quarter. The Warriors star was left on the floor, clutching his face in pain. Soon, he was helped to the locker room with a towel on his face. Meanwhile, Ball was awarded two free throws after the collision.

This was the second time a player was injured in the 3 quarter of the ongoing game itself. Guard Brandin Podziemski also went to the locker room briefly after sustaining an apparent knee injury. Fortunately, he returned to the bench a few minutes later and was back in the game later in the third. Before that, Stephen Curry appeared to tweak his ankle but remained in the contest.

According to Ohm Youngmisuk, Payton II was hit in the nose and continues to be re-evaluated. With the collision, the Warriors’ small forward/shooting guard added another ailment to the extensive list covering this season. Along with the ankle, Payton II also previously suffered from issues related to illness, his calf, and his thigh. There is no information yet on how long the player will be ‘OUT’. However, the Warriors squad will have to be prepared just in case.

(Updated information) Per Anthony Slater of The Athletic, post-game saw Payton with a visible cut on his nose. However, the 32-year-old had a promising outlook: “[He] said he’d be fine. Hopes to play tomorrow in New York.” 

How can the Golden State Warriors proceed without Gary Payton II?

Fortunately, Gary Payton II is not a starter. This means that the recent incident won’t affect the Bay Area franchise’s starting five. However, both Jimmy Butler and Brandin Podziemski will be left without a reliable backup to cover the game when they are on the bench. Therefore, in his absence, Moses Moody could see an increase in his minutes, as the player might have to cover both the shooting guard and the small forward position.

In 52 games this season, Moody has averaged 9.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. This average score is certainly better than the 5.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists Payton II has averaged this season. At the same time, Jimmy Butler could be asked to play more minutes. The veteran’s sole presence has reportedly elevated the Warriors’ standing to another level.

The 16.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists he has averaged with the Bay Area aren’t the only impressive things about him. His strategic mind and desire to form plays have impressed several people, including Draymond Green.

The Golden State Warriors currently hold the 6 seed on the Western Conference chart. In their fight to move further up the ranks, Gary Payton II’s injury certainly comes at a wrong time.