Warriors Miss Out on Play-In Tournament
Warriors' 125-90 Win Over Bucks Not Enough
Payton's Absence Looms Large
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - Despite a 125-90 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday, the Golden State Warriors will miss out on the NBA Play-In Tournament due to Gary Payton II's suspension. Payton, who was ejected from Tuesday's game against the Sacramento Kings for a hard foul, will be ineligible to play in the Warriors' first Play-In game if they had advanced.
With Payton out, the Warriors would have been at a significant disadvantage against the loser of the Pelicans-Lakers matchup. Payton has been a key contributor for the Warriors this season, averaging 7.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. His absence would have been a major blow to the Warriors' chances of advancing to the playoffs.
The Warriors finished the regular season with a 53-29 record, good for third place in the Western Conference. However, their loss to the Kings on Tuesday dropped them to the seventh seed, which means they would have needed to win two Play-In games to reach the playoffs.
Despite the disappointing end to the season, the Warriors can take solace in the fact that they have a bright future. Stephen Curry is still playing at an MVP level, and Klay Thompson is finally starting to return to his old form. With a few more pieces added to the roster, the Warriors should be contenders for the NBA championship next season.
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