Impact Payne has missed over a month due to his foot injury and still lacks a clear timeline for a return, but the Suns have already dismissed the possibility of him playing Tuesday against the Kings or Thursday against the Clippers. If Payne is cleared to resume practicing shortly after his re-evaluation, he could have a chance at being ready to go when the Suns open their post-break schedule Feb. 24 against the Thunder. In the meantime, Payne's ongoing absence should clear the way for Saben Lee to serve as starting point guard Chris Paul's primary backup.
FEBRUARY 13, 2023 • ROTOWIRE