Warriors' Gary Payton II Elbow Injury Reportedly Diagnosed as Fracture

The Golden State Warriors lost guard Gary Payton II to an elbow injury in the first quarter of their playoff game against the Memphis Grizzles, but they hoped his perimeter defense could help contain Ja Morant.

After suffering a hard foul in transition, Payton was ruled out. A foul was issued and he was ejected.

The Athletic reported after the game that Payton had suffered a fractured elbow and would have an exam on Wednesday.

While the play was being reviewed, he grabbed his elbow and remained down for a while. He went to the locker room after hitting one of two free throws.

In the first game of the series, Golden State started him, and he finished with eight points, seven rebound, three assists, one steal and one block in a well-balanced showing.

In 18.6 minutes per game this season, the veteran averaged 7.1 points, 3.5 rebound and 1.4 steals.

He was the best statistical player in his career, and he has been a key role player for the team.

The Warriors have three off days with Game 3 scheduled for Saturday, but the one silver lining is that they stole home-court advantage with their Game 1 win. It will give him time to heal before the series moves to San Francisco.

Jordan Poole will take on an even larger role if he is able to return. Damion Lee will likely get more playing time.