Shams: Warriors' Gary Payton II Expected to Start in NBA Playoffs Game 4 vs. Lakers

The Golden State Warriors reportedly are planning to make another change to their starting lineup in Monday's Game 4 against the Los Angeles Lakers.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, shooting guard Gary Payton II is expected to get the start alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green.

This will be the third different starting lineup Golden State has deployed in its series against Los Angeles. After losing Game 1, starting center Kevon Looney was replaced by forward-center JaMychal Green. While Green scored 15 points in the Warriors' Game 2 blowout win, he was held to just two points in Saturday's 30-point loss in Game 3.

Through the first three games of the series, Payton has averaged 5.7 points and 3.7 rebounds in 11.3 minutes. The 30-year-old is known for the energy he brings on the defensive end of the floor, but his inclusion among the starters gives Golden State an incredibly small lineup against the Lakers' stout front line led by Anthony Davis. Wiggins would be the Warriors' tallest starter at 6'7".

However, adding Payton to the starting lineup is a clear indication that the Warriors are hoping to play faster and get out in transition more. If Golden State is able to increase the pace of play, it could result in fatigue for Davis and star forward LeBron James.

The Warriors are hoping to avoid falling into a 3-1 deficit, so Payton will have to be ready to contribute when he takes the floor with Curry and company on Monday night.