When Is Gary Payton II Coming back for the Portland Trail Blazers?
By Peter Dewey
The Portland Trail Blazers made a major move to fix their defense this offseason by signing guard Gary Payton II to a three-year deal.
However, Payton won't be able to play in the Blazers' season opener on Wednesday night, as he is still recovering from an offseason procedure on his core.
The Blazers have other options on the wing and at guard, including Anfernee Simons, Josh Hart, Shaedon Sharpe and Keon Johnson, that will have to fill in while Payton is out of the lineup.
Latest Injury Update for Gary Payton II
Payton II reportedly won't return until Nov. 15 at the earliest from his abdominal injury.
Portland Trail Blazers guard Gary Payton II (abdominal surgery) will make his season debut at the earliest on Nov. 15 against the San Antonio Spurs, league sources tell @NBAonTNT.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) November 1, 2022
It was thought originally that Payton's could return late October or early November, but he needs more time to get back on the floor. There's no reason for Portland to rush him back into the lineup, especially since the team has playoff aspirations this season.
Payton really burst onto the scene last year for the Golden State Warriors after several years of bouncing around the NBA and G League. He averaged 7.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 0.9 assists per game while usually guarding the opposing team's best player.
He should have a similar role in Portland once he's back on the floor.
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