The semi-finals compete! Who will win the 32-year-old champion guard?

On July 23, the war in the NBA free agent market rekindled, and 32-year-old Warriors meritorious defender Gary Payton II Jr. became the focus player. The defensive vanguard who won the championship with the Warriors in 2022 has not yet confirmed his new owner, but according to US media "Basketball News" and well-known reporter Evan Sidery, the four major powerhouses of the Lakers, Bucks, Heat and Suns have joined the battle, and the possibility of returning to the Golden State Warriors also exists.

As an important substitute rotation last season, Payton's movements have attracted the attention of many teams. Although the free market has been open for nearly a month, the defender, known for his defense and vitality, has not yet signed. The report pointed out that the Lakers, Bucks, Heat and Suns are all interested in them. It is interesting to note that Payton played for the Lakers briefly in the 2017-18 season, and this experience may add possibility to the two sides to renew their relationship. At the same time, the option to return to the Warriors is also on the table - after all, Payton's adaptability and comfort in the Warriors system have long been proven, and Golden State's familiar offensive and defensive rhythm obviously makes him feel like a fish in water.

Last season, Payton performed soundly as a functional player. He played 62 games in the regular season and averaged 6.5 points, 3 rebounds and 0.8 steals per game in just 15 minutes. His shooting percentage was as high as 57.4% and his three-point shooting percentage was 32.6%. Surprisingly, Payton's value has been further highlighted when entering the playoff stage. In the playoffs, he averaged 16.4 minutes per game, his three-point shooting percentage soared to 39.1%, and his presence on the defensive end was very strong. This characteristic that is born for big scenes is the scarce resource that the championship team desires.

Payton's annual salary for the Warriors was $9.1 million last season, but based on his age, functional positioning and current market environment analysis, it is generally expected that his new contract will be based on a veteran's basic salary worth about $3.3 million. For strong teams such as the Lakers and the Bucks who have tight salary space, this price is extremely cost-effective and can win an experienced champion puzzle at an extremely low price.

Peton's final choice is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Which champion guard who is good at defense and empty cut will this championship puzzle be? Return to the Warriors' arms or pursue a new challenge? The game in the free market is waiting for Payton to finish his sentence.