Golden State Warriors fans have been experiencing a sense of déjà vu lately, watching their team show potential during games only to stumble at the finish. After a narrow 111-105 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Monday, the Warriors find themselves in eighth place in the Western Conference with a record of 15-13. Their strong start to the season has faded as chemistry issues linger. However, the team is approaching full health, with Gary Payton II being the only player listed on the injury report ahead of their Christmas game against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. Payton’s status has improved to questionable due to a left calf contusion. While a healthy roster doesn’t guarantee an immediate improvement, it increases Golden State’s chances of finding solutions.
Head coach Steve Kerr has already experimented with a 12-man rotation this season and may need to adjust his lineup again as the team struggles to mesh. With Payton and other role players likely to see more playing time, the team remains in an experimental phase until they can solidify a successful starting group.
Payton has proven himself as a valuable asset to the Warriors, averaging 4.7 points on nearly 54 percent shooting in just 13.4 minutes per game, with his defense providing a significant boost off the bench. The 2022 NBA champion is eager to bring his energy when the Warriors face the Lakers on Christmas Day.
For Golden State to regain their footing in the Western Conference, players like Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Gary Payton II must find their rhythm alongside core players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. With some adjustments, the Warriors have the potential to persevere.
The Warriors’ matchup against the Lakers is set to start at approximately 8 p.m. ET at the Chase Center on Wednesday.
