Bad news, Warriors - Rockets key player Payton Jr. was relegated unexpectedly, and his appearance was doubtful

The Golden State Warriors will be on the verge of elimination on Sunday, and they will face the Houston Rockets away, a seventh game with a "bad victory or defeat". The Warriors led 3-1 in the series, and when everything seemed to be moving in a good direction, they lost two consecutive games and eventually tied the total score. One of the Warriors' biggest defeats in the first round of the playoff series was the lack of lineup depth, especially when facing a Rockets with a deep and talented roster.

Unfortunately, the Warriors' roster depth could be hit even harder on Sunday, as defender Gary Payton II was relegated to play due to illness.

#Warriors#'s latest injury report shows that Gary Payton II (due to illness) plays in Game 7 against the #Rockets tonight. Rockets' Jock Langdale (knee) and Jayshaun Tate (ankle) are still unable to play.

— Adam Wexler (@AdamJWexler) May 4, 2025

Payton made his first start in his sixth game of losing to the Rockets on Friday. In about 20 minutes of the game, he made 2 of 5 shots and 1 of 4 three-pointers, scoring 5 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal.

Payton was initially listed as a left-hand thumb splint fixture in Sunday's injury report and was able to play, but now being relegated to play for other reasons is doubtful, which undoubtedly concerns about his status.

Peton stepped up when six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler missed Game 3 of the series and the Warriors were trying to steal a victory in his absence. In that game, he made 7 of 9 shots, 2 of 3-pointers and scored 16 points, providing superstar Stephen Curry with much-needed offensive firepower. The Warriors desperately need Payton to play in Game 7 on Sunday, and the uncertainty of his current form is undoubtedly worrying.

Warriors and Rockets will face off in Houston at 8:30 pm ET for a victory in Game 7 or go home.