From the day he was drafted I've been a fan. I remember watching videos of him showing off his dribbling skills. I expected his shooting and ball handling to provide the Cs a solid backup pg or eventually a starter. Early this season many on this forum tore him apart for his lack of defense. At times he seemed lost and badly beaten against quick guards. Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1966 musical), while his shooting returned in '22 his defense picked up also. Payton's hustle and desire has blended with his bb knowledge and while at 6' he still has trouble with big, quick guards, Payton is a keeper. I like the nickname Bulldog for the Cs backup pg who helped win last nights game.