Gary Payton still sees the court, still dissects strengths and weaknesses, and, of course, offers commentary. Inactive but not retired, Payton studies several NBA teams, one of which is the Warriors.

At age 39, he even imagines himself on coach Don Nelson's roster.

"I like Nellie, the kind of ball they play," Payton said during a recent phone interview.

The Warriors, meanwhile, are open to the idea.

"You know what he would bring," vice president of basketball operations Chris Mullin said. "So ... possibly. We're open-minded. There are some ifs on both sides."

Rumors have circulated for a couple of weeks that Payton, who has not played since last season in Miami, is pondering a return. Given the circumstances, the Warriors are a logical option.

"(Oakland) is my home," Payton said, "so I'm looking at it. We've talked back and forth a little bit. They're doing what they have to do, and I'm doing what I have to do. I have a some things to think about, and so do they."

Via InsideBayArea.com

Golden State Warriors

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