The Golden State Warriors remain quiet in the free agency market.
The conversations about the future of the Warriors and Jonathan Cuminga remain there, with the latest update suggesting that young people can go to Sacramento.
The Warriors are also continuing their conversation about Al Horford, with the latest reportedly interested in Damian Lillard’s landing.
Celebrities aside, the Warriors are interested in retrieving former player Gary Payton II.
Interestingly, former Boston Celtics player Jeff Teague believes the latter should join the Charlotte Hornets rather than playing with Golden State.
“I don’t know why Gary Payton hasn’t been picked up yet,” Teague began her podcast.
“It’s not rude, but that’s the people Charlotte should have picked up.
“Gary Payton, because Gary Payton is like a little forward. He plays like a 4, 3 despite him being that size,” he said.
Teague believes Payton’s skill set for the Warriors reminds him of his teammate Draymond Green. This type of player is what the Hornets need now to supplement their roster.
“He sets up the screen and rolls. He’s a live threat. He’s a small version of Draymond, which is what I’m hoping for. I’ll go to Charlotte,” Teague explained.
Payton himself averaged 6.5 points, 1.3 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game last season, shooting 57.4%.
His ability to become a boundary defender to protect many good players, as well as the occasional shooter and dunker, would be a great addition for any team, especially the Hornets.
The Hornets focused on adding players like Collin Sexton, Pat Connaughton and Spencer Dinwiddie to their free agency, but they need someone who can play well even in paint, like Payton.
His championship experience and defensive versatility could make him a perfect lackluster piece for Charlotte’s playoff aspirations.
However, the Hornets may face competition with the Warriors as they are also interested in keeping Payton up for next season.