REVEALED: Gary Payton II HAS SIGNED A SECRET CONTRACT WITH L.A LAKERS! SAYING GOODBYE TO 2 CURRENT STARS

EXCLUSIVE: GARY PAYTON II SECRETLY SIGNS WITH L.A. LAKERS! ARE TWO CURRENT STARS ON THEIR WAY OUT?  

Los Angeles, [Date] – In a shocking development reported by NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, defensive stalwart Gary Payton II has quietly agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. The move could signal the end of the road for two current Lakers stars as the franchise reshapes its roster ahead of the new season.  

A Stealthy Offseason Move  

According to ESPN sources, Payton II and the Lakers have reached an undisclosed agreement, though official announcements are pending. While contract details remain under wraps, the signing is seen as a strategic play by GM Rob Pelinka to bolster the team’s perimeter defense alongside Anthony Davis.  

Payton II, son of NBA legend Gary Payton, carved out a reputation as a lockdown defender during his tenure with the Golden State Warriors, playing a key role in their 2022 championship run with his relentless steals and hustle. However, injuries limited him to just 44 games last season, where he averaged a modest 5.5 PPG but remained one of the league’s top 10 defensive guards.  

Who Gets Cut to Make Room?  

The acquisition likely means the Lakers will part ways with either D’Angelo Russell or Jarred Vanderbilt to free up roster space and financial flexibility.  

– D’Angelo Russell: Despite averaging 18 PPG, his inconsistent playoff performances have raised concerns. With $36 million due in the final year of his contract, the Lakers may see him as an expendable asset.  

– Jarred Vanderbilt: A defensive specialist plagued by injuries. If Payton II joins, Vanderbilt’s role becomes redundant, given their overlapping skill sets.  

A Lakers insider revealed: “We need versatility. Payton II is an upgraded version of Vanderbilt—same defensive intensity but with better speed and playoff experience.”  

Golden State’s Reaction  

The Warriors appear unfazed by the departure. Head coach Steve Kerr had previously acknowledged: “GPII deserves more minutes. We wish him the best.”—a hint that the team had already prepared for his exit.  

What This Means for the Lakers  

With Payton II in the mix, the Lakers gain:  

– A defensive nightmare duo (Payton II + Davis) capable of shutting down elite scorers.  

– Much-needed bench depth—a longstanding weakness for the franchise.  

The biggest question is Payton II’s durability. If he stays healthy and recaptures his 2022 form, the Lakers could emerge as serious contenders in the loaded Western Conference.  

The deal is expected to be finalized next week pending league approval. Stay tuned for updates!