HOUSTON — Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II will not be available for Sunday night’s decisive Game 7 against the Houston Rockets due to an illness. Head Coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Payton woke up feeling unwell and is unable to participate in the crucial playoff matchup.
“He’s really not in good shape,” Kerr remarked about Payton’s condition. “He didn’t attend shootaround and hasn’t had anything to eat. There is no scenario where he can play, which is a significant loss for us.”
Payton, who had been a solid contributor off the bench in the first five games of the playoff series, made his starting debut in Game 6, where he scored 16 points in a pivotal win. His absence in Game 7 undoubtedly leaves a gap in the Warriors’ lineup, as the team seeks to advance in the playoffs.
Kerr acknowledged the challenge of adjusting the team’s strategy in light of Payton’s illness, stating, “We’ll need to be flexible with our rotations. He’s had a big role in this series, and his absence will require us to explore different lineup combinations.” The coach is currently evaluating how best to fill the void left by Payton while also preparing for the Rockets’ attacking formation.
As the Warriors attempt to regroup without Payton, other players will need to step up. The team has dealt with various adversities this season, and this latest setback adds another layer of complexity as they head into the high-stakes game.
Fans and analysts will be closely watching how Kerr navigates these lineup changes, with several options available to mitigate the impact on the game. The Warriors have a wealth of talent; the question remains who will seize the opportunity in Payton’s absence.
With playoff intensity ramping up, the Warriors must focus on collective resilience. Every possession counts, and the team is looking for a strong performance to secure a spot in the next round.
As they prepare for a critical match against the Rockets, the Warriors’ depth will be tested. It’s a moment for emerging stars to shine and contribute significantly to the team’s playoff aspirations.