Gary

Payton

Moody will miss a seventh straight game, and it’s unclear when he’ll be available to return. Until Moody is back in action, Will Richard and Gary Payton II should see additional playing time.

Having hit double digits in rebounds in two of his last three appearances, Payton recorded his second double-double of the season on Tuesday. The few who have him on their fantasy rosters also received good value in the steals category. Payton is not a must-roster player, but his fantasy value increases on nights when the Warriors don’t have De’Anthony Melton, as was the case against the Bulls.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr said that Melton would play in this game, which would be his first time playing both legs of a back-to-back this season after missing most of last season with a torn ACL. However, it won’t be the knee keeping him on the sidelines, but left adductor soreness. Expect Gary Payton II and Pat Spencer to take on extra minutes.

Golden State’s injury report is lengthy for the second leg of a back-to-back set, and Melton’s potential absence could free up extra playing time for Pat Spencer and Gary Payton II.

Fortunately, Kristaps Porziņģis (illness) is available, but Golden State’s frontcourt depth could be limited if Green or Post are ultimately ruled out. If that happens, Al Horford should pick up the slack, and Gary Payton II (probable) and Gui Santos could see some additional run as well.

Payton is back after a two-game absence with a left ankle impingement. While his impact on fantasy basketball is limited, GPII is one of the players who may be asked to take a turn defending Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on Saturday.

Payton has missed Golden State’s last two games with a left ankle impingement. With Will Richard also out, the Warriors turned to Nate Williams to play rotation minutes off the bench. He’ll fall in the pecking order if Payton and Richard play.

Thursday’s game will be the second Payton has missed due to a left ankle impingement. Nate Williams has moved into the back end of the Warriors’ rotation and should retain that role on Thursday. However, that isn’t enough to make him a worthwhile option in fantasy leagues.

GPII missed Monday’s game, which opened the door for Nate Williams and Pat Spencer to pick up extra minutes. However, with Moses Moody (wrist) set to miss this game, Payton’s return shouldn’t take away many minutes from Williams and Spencer.

Initially questionable for Monday’s game, Payton has been sidelined by a left ankle impingement. His absence may lead to Nate Williams playing rotation minutes off the bench, but he’s unlikely to do enough to affect fantasy basketball.