The Golden State Warriors have surprised everyone with their performance. Currently, the best team in the NBA, they are not even at full power yet. With Klay Thompson and James Wiseman set to return, their potential is truly scary.

However, they managed to reach this point because of their role players stepping up big time. One of them is a former G league player, Gary Payton II. He has immense confidence in himself, but still knows his place when it comes to Stephen Curry.

Payton is the son of the legendary Gary Payton. Coming from that defensive background, it is no surprise he is an elite defensive guard. Payton is one of the main reasons why the Warriors are also the best defensive team in the league. In a recent interview, Payton displayed immense confidence in his game.

However, when it comes to his shooting, Payton knew he wasn’t anything like Stephen Curry.

WATCH THIS STORY: NBA Stars That Shaquille O’Neal Has Taken Jabs at: Donovan Mitchell, James Harden & Others

Gary Payton II announces himself with the Warriors big time

Payton came in as a big blessing for the Warriors this season. The Bay lost Wiseman and didn’t have Klay Thompson either. This resulted in a big loss in terms of defense.

However, with the entry of Payton, things changed really quickly. The trio of Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green and Payton have been great on the defensive end for the Bay.

Moreover, Payton also adds a touch of efficient scoring to the mix. Currently, the guard is averaging 6 points per game while shooting almost 65% from the field. That is impressive, especially considering his primary job is defending coming off the bench.

When it comes to that, he is nothing short of elite. Payton holds himself in high regard.

He said: “I obviously don’t shoot like f**king Steph Curry, but I do damn near everything else elite.”

Payton is averaging only 14 minutes of game time right now. However, in that time he is impacting the game a lot more than an average player. While putting up a steal every game, his defense slows down the opposition in a big way and paves way for the Warriors’ counter attack as well.

READ MORE- WATCH: Shaquille O’Neal Sang and Roasted Former Laker Who Got Traded for Kobe Bryant

His addition has been key to the success of the Bay and there is no doubt his role will grow in the coming years. Do you think Gary Payton II can win Defensive Player of The Year some day? Let us know in the comments below.