Is GPII on the move
The NBA free agency period is always full of surprises, but the latest development surrounding Gary Payton II could be one of the most shocking yet. The Golden State Warriors’ delay in resolving Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation has opened the door for their Pacific Division rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, to potentially swoop in and steal a key piece of their 2022 championship roster.
There were some whispers connecting Gary Payton II to the Lakers even before he signed with Bill Duffy. I can safely say he’s very much on the Lakers’ radar.
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) July 18, 2025
Payton’s Agency Switch Sparks Lakers Interest
Gary Payton II, an unrestricted free agent, recently made headlines by switching his representation to WME Sports, where he is now represented by agent Bill Duffy. This move is significant because Duffy already represents three Lakers players—Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, and Jaxson Hayes—while handling no more than two players from any other NBA franchise. According to Lakers insider Anthony Irwin, this agency change has placed Payton firmly on the Lakers’ radar.
“There were some whispers connecting Gary Payton II to the Lakers even before he signed with Bill Duffy. I can safely say he’s very much on the Lakers’ radar.”
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA), July 18, 2025
Payton’s ties to Los Angeles run deeper than just his new agent. The 32-year-old guard previously played 11 games for the Lakers during the 2017-18 season, giving him some familiarity with the franchise. After bouncing around the league for years, Payton found a home with the Warriors, becoming a fan favorite and a critical defensive cog in their 2022 championship run. His performance earned him a three-year, $27 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, but he returned to Golden State midseason in a multi-team trade.
Warriors’ Delay on Kuminga Creates an Opening
The Warriors’ hesitation in finalizing a deal with Jonathan Kuminga, a restricted free agent, is proving costly. Golden State has been unable to make significant moves in free agency until Kuminga’s future—whether through a re-signing or a sign-and-trade—is resolved. This delay has left other key free agents, including Payton, Al Horford, and De’Anthony Melton, in limbo, creating an opportunity for rival teams to pounce.
The Lakers, in particular, are looking to bolster their perimeter defense after losing Dorian Finney-Smith in free agency. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves forming a backcourt not known for its defensive prowess, Payton’s elite defensive skills make him an ideal target. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses could provide the Lakers with the defensive spark they desperately need.
Golden State’s Potential Loss Could Be Lakers’ Gain
If the Lakers succeed in signing Payton, it would be a significant blow to the Warriors, who have already lost one beloved veteran this offseason. Three-time champion Kevon Looney recently signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, leaving a void in Golden State’s frontcourt. Losing Payton, a tenacious defender and locker-room leader, would further weaken the Warriors’ roster, especially on the defensive end.
While Golden State could turn to De’Anthony Melton to fill the defensive void, the 27-year-old is coming off a torn ACL, raising concerns about his immediate impact. Payton’s proven track record and familiarity with the Warriors’ system make him a valuable asset, and his departure could disrupt the team’s chemistry.
A Rivalry Rekindled
The potential move would add another chapter to the storied rivalry between the Lakers and Warriors. The two teams have been battling for Pacific Division supremacy for years, and snagging Payton would give Los Angeles not only a talented player but also a psychological edge over their rivals. For Warriors fans, the thought of Payton donning the purple and gold is a bitter pill to swallow, especially if it results from the team’s own indecision.
As the free agency period progresses, all eyes will be on the Warriors’ front office to see how they navigate the Kuminga situation. Will they resolve it in time to secure Payton and maintain their core? Or will their hesitation prove costly, allowing the Lakers to pull off a stunning coup? One thing is certain: the NBA offseason never lacks drama, and this potential move could be one of its biggest twists yet.