Little Payton.

(File photo, Associated Press)

[Sports Center/Comprehensive Report] The Warriors announced today that guard Gary Payton II will return as soon as next Monday against the Timberwolves, adding a boost to the team's fight for playoff tickets.

The Warriors bought back the hero of last season's championship from the Trail Blazers at the trading deadline in February. However, it was revealed that he had failed the physical examination and had right adductor and core injuries. At that time, the deal fell through, but the Warriors finally It is still decided to reach a deal and let Payton Jr. recover from his injuries so far.

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Payton Jr. played in 71 games for the Warriors last season, averaging 7.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. He often played defensive tasks in the backcourt with Andrew Wiggins.

And he signed a three-year $26 million contract with the Trail Blazers in the offseason, and then underwent surgery. This season, he played 15 games for the Trail Blazers, averaging 17 minutes per game, scoring 4.1 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

The Warriors are fighting for the last playoff spot in the West without having to play the playoffs. They defeated the Lone Ranger on the road yesterday.

They currently rank sixth in the Western Conference with a record of 38 wins and 36 losses.

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