There is a growing "internal belief" within the Golden State Warriors that they will not be able to re-sign Gary Payton II, sources told Anthony Slater and Sam Amick of The Athletic.

The Athletic adds that there is also a "distance" between the team re-signing Kevon Looney, though Looney's return is still "likely."

The Warriors want to bring both players back, but are facing a record tax bill that would multiply every extra dollar spent by almost seven.

Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report added late Thursday that Payton has a "strong offer" from the Blazers, though he is still interested in returning to the Warriors.