The Golden State Warriors are making waves in the NBA offseason, and the return of fan-favorite Gary Payton II is stealing the spotlight. The gritty guard, known for his tenacious defense and electrifying hustle, is officially back with the Dubs for the 2025-2026 season, inking a deal that has fans buzzing and analysts raising eyebrows. According to a report from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Payton’s one-year contract is valued at a cool $3.3 million—a figure that, surprisingly, aligns him with two other notable veterans in the league. And trust us, the names might just blow your mind.
The Warriors wasted no time securing their defensive dynamo, announcing the re-signing of Gary Payton II over the weekend. “The Golden State Warriors have re-signed free agent guard Gary Payton II,” the team’s press release stated, keeping the financial details under wraps per team policy. However, Scotto’s report confirms the one-year, $3.3 million deal, cementing Payton’s place in Golden State’s rotation for a fourth consecutive season.
Payton, now in his second stint with the Warriors, has become a cornerstone of their identity. Last season, the 32-year-old suited up for 62 games, averaging 15 minutes per night. His stat line—6.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists on an impressive 57% field goal percentage and 33% from three—doesn’t fully capture his impact. Known as “GP2,” Payton’s relentless energy, lockdown defense, and knack for game-changing plays make him a vital piece for a Warriors team chasing another championship.
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Who Else Is Cashing In at $3.3M?
Here’s where things get juicy. According to Spotrac, Payton’s $3.3 million contract puts him in the same financial bracket as two other NBA veterans, and their names might surprise you: Dante Exum of the Dallas Mavericks and Malcolm Brogdon of the New York Knicks.
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Dante Exum (Dallas Mavericks): The Mavs brought back Exum earlier this month on a one-year, $3.3 million deal. The Australian guard has been a reliable contributor, appearing in 75 games over the past two seasons with Dallas. Last year, Exum averaged 8.7 points per game, shooting an efficient 48% from the field and a scorching 43% from beyond the arc. His versatility and sharpshooting make him a steal at this price point for a Mavericks team looking to build on their Finals run.
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Malcolm Brogdon (New York Knicks): Just a week before the Knicks’ early training camp, Brogdon signed a one-year, $3.3 million contract. However, his roster spot isn’t guaranteed, and the 32-year-old will need to prove his worth to secure a place on New York’s final roster by late October. Brogdon, a former Rookie of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year, brings veteran savvy and playmaking, but his health and fit with the Knicks remain question marks.
Payton, Exum, and Brogdon aren’t alone in this salary range. Several other players are hovering around the $3 million mark for the 2025-2026 season, forming a fascinating group of veterans and role players. Names like Thomas Bryant, Chris Boucher, Landry Shamet, Aaron Holiday, Bruce Brown, and Marvin Bagley are all inked to contracts with similar value. Each brings a unique skill set, from rim protection to perimeter shooting, proving that this price point is a sweet spot for teams hunting for impact players on a budget.
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Payton’s re-signing is just the tip of the iceberg for Golden State. Over the weekend, the Warriors reportedly reached handshake agreements with veterans Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton, though their contracts are still pending due to salary cap constraints. Much of the team’s offseason strategy hinges on the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga contract situation, which could shape the roster’s final form. As the Warriors navigate these deals, Payton’s return provides a steady, familiar presence in a locker room built on championship pedigree.
Gary Payton II’s $3.3 million deal is more than just a contract—it’s a statement. The Warriors are doubling down on their defensive identity, betting on GP2’s heart and hustle to fuel another deep playoff run. That his salary matches that of Exum and Brogdon, two players with distinct roles on contending teams, underscores the value of savvy signings in today’s NBA. As the Warriors gear up for the 2025-2026 season, all eyes will be on Payton to deliver the spark that could push Golden State back to the top.