Los Angeles Lakers Reportedly Among Five Contenders Eyeing $26.2 Million Golden State Warriors Star in Free Agency | NBA News
Gary Payton II has quickly become one of the most intriguing names left in NBA free agency. According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, the Los Angeles Lakers are among five teams actively pursuing the defensive standout, joining the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors in the race for his signature.
Why the Lakers Are Interested In Gary
For a Lakers team that struggled with perimeter defense last season and often lacked energy off the bench, Gary Payton II checks several important boxes. Known for his relentless on-ball pressure and ability to disrupt offensive flow, Payton would immediately upgrade the team’s defensive identity.The Lakers’ recent playoff exits have underscored a need for two-way players who can stay on the floor in high-stakes moments. While Payton isn’t a high-volume scorer, his hustle, versatility, and winning pedigree make him a strong fit for a roster still built around LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Gary Payton II’s 2024-25 Season in Numbers
Despite not being a featured option on offense, Gary Payton II was highly efficient in his minutes during the 2024-25 season.
Gary Payton II – 2024-25 Stats
Gary Payton II (Image via NBA)
| Category | Stat |
| Games Played | 62 |
| Points per Game | 6.5 |
| Rebounds per Game | 3.0 |
| Assists per Game | 1.3 |
| Field Goal % | 57.4% |
| 3-Point % | 32.6% |
These numbers show that while Payton isn’t a primary scorer, he brings elite efficiency and consistency in his role—something the Lakers bench lacked at times last season.
How He Fits Into Darvin Ham’s System
Darvin Ham has placed a premium on defensive intensity and switchability, and Payton fits perfectly into that vision. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate fast-break opportunities would allow Ham to deploy more aggressive defensive schemes, especially when resting starters.
A Perfect Fit with Marcus Smart in the Los Angeles Lakers
One of the Los Angeles Lakers’ biggest offseason moves was the acquisition of Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year. Adding Gary Payton II to the backcourt would give Los Angeles two of the best perimeter defenders in the league—a nightmare scenario for opposing guards.Defensive Impact: Smart + Payton Duo– Both are elite at generating steals and deflections– High basketball IQ allows seamless switching in defensive rotations– Toughness, leadership, and hustle traits shared by both– Capable of guarding 1-3 positions, allowing LeBron and AD to conserve energy– Both thrive in chaotic, high-effort defensive settingsWith Smart operating as the primary floor general and defensive leader, Payton could play the role of an energizer—disrupting passing lanes, pushing the pace, and covering elite scorers. Their chemistry could quickly turn the Lakers’ backcourt into one of the most feared defensive tandems in the NBA.
Competition in the Market
Evan Sidery’s report confirms that the Los Angeles Lakers aren’t alone in their interest: “The Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors are all keeping tabs on the defensive-minded guard,” wrote Sidery.The Suns could use Payton’s defense to bolster their second unit behind a star-studded starting five, while the Heat and Bucks view him as a glue guy who fits seamlessly into a contender’s culture. Meanwhile, the Warriors remain a sentimental and tactical destination, given Payton’s championship history with the franchise.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Urgency and Roster Implications
With limited cap flexibility, the Los Angeles Lakers must act quickly if they want to land Payton. He wouldn’t command a massive deal, making him a financially smart addition who could thrive in Los Angeles’ structured yet fast-paced system.If acquired, Payton would likely slot in as a key rotational guard, sharing minutes with Gabe Vincent and Jalen Hood-Schifino, while also offering injury insurance for defensive assignments in critical games.The Los Angeles Lakers’ reported interest in Gary Payton II isn’t just about stats—it’s about identity. A player who embraces defense, plays with intensity, and has a winning background aligns with everything the franchise hopes to reestablish after a turbulent season.Also read: Lakers Rumor: Dalton Knecht’s Trade Value Reportedly Tanks After Disappointing Summer League Showing With Los AngelesAdding Payton alongside Marcus Smart could create one of the grittiest and most disruptive backcourts in the NBA—a defensive pairing that would instantly raise the Lakers’ championship ceiling. As free agency continues, Rob Pelinka and the front office will need to move decisively to bring that vision to life.
