Gary Payton II dominates with 19 points and 11 rebounds as Warriors edge Pelicans 104-96 without Steph Curry

Gary Payton II delivered a clutch performance with 19 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Warriors past the Pelicans 104-96 on November 29, 2025. Without Stephen Curry managing a left quad strain, Golden State executed a crucial late-game surge to secure their first win without their superstar. Payton’s double-double proved instrumental during the Warriors’ decisive 11-point run that sealed the victory.

Gary Payton II Shines in Warriors’ Late-Game Heroics

Gary Payton II showcased his value as a critical role player when the Warriors needed depth most. With Curry sidelined, the Warriors faced a challenging matchup against New Orleans. Payton stepped up defensively while contributing offensively, finishing as Golden State’s leading rebounder with 11 boards.

During the decisive closing stretch, Payton contributed 7 points as the Warriors outscored the Pelicans by executing crisp ball movement and defensive intensity. His performance highlighted how the Warriors can compete without their star player when role players elevate their games. The double-double achievement marked a strong individual effort amid team-wide offensive struggles.

Warriors Overcome Offensive Struggles Without Curry

Golden State’s offense operated at historically low efficiency levels, missing 13 of 14 three-point attempts in the first half. The Warriors connected on just 2-of-22 from beyond the arc before halftime (9.1%), generating one of their worst shooting performances under coach Steve Kerr.

Despite the offensive funk, the Pelicans matched the Warriors’ struggles, allowing Golden State to remain competitive throughout. The game remained tight until the fourth quarter when Brandin Podziemski drained a crucial three-pointer to give Warriors a 90-88 lead with just minutes remaining. From that point forward, the Warriors executed defensive stops while Payton and Jimmy Butler finished converts.

Warriors’ Depth Challenges Continue While Curry Recovers

Jonathan Kuminga returned from a seven-game absence with bilateral knee patellar tendonitis, starting warmups and receiving medical clearance. After missing significant time, Kuminga appeared limited, finishing with just 10 points on 2-for-4 three-point shooting in 19 minutes off the bench.

The Warriors also welcomed back Kevon Looney, who played his first game at Chase Center since leaving Golden State. Looney appeared briefly in 11 minutes with 4 points and 5 rebounds. The roster depth will continue facing strain through at least early December while Curry heals from his quad injury.

“The Warriors survived another injury scare when Will Richard returned to the game in the third quarter after spending the remainder of the first half with his midsection wrapped in a heating/cooling pad.”

— Bay Area News Group, Game Recap

Can Golden State Maintain Winning Ways Through Curry’s Absence?

The Warriors face a critical stretch with Curry expected out at least one week managing his quad injury. Saturday’s victory demonstrated that Golden State can compete without their superstar when role players like Gary Payton II step up and the team executes disciplined defense in crucial moments.

Jimmy Butler’s aggressive playmaking proved essential, accumulating 10 assists while drawing 14 fouls for 10 additional points from the free-throw line. The Warriors shot 2-of-22 from three before halftime but improved their efficiency after intermission. Success during this Curry-less stretch depends on continued elevated play from secondary scorers and Payton’s contributions in both rebounding and timing defensive rotations.

Sources

• The Vacaville Reporter – Warriors defeated Pelicans 104-96 with Gary Payton II contributing double-double
• Bay Area News Group – Game recap and player statistics from November 29 matchup
• NBA.com – Official game statistics and box score

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.