According to multiple media reports, the Phoenix Suns will sign free agent Matt Barnes to a veteran's minimum deal worth $1.2 million after Barnes passes a physical on Monday in Phoenix.
"He's the perfect player for us—an athletic guy who runs the floor, finishes at the basket, and can shoot the outside shot," Suns general manager Steve Kerr said, according to the East Valley Tribune. "He's also a guy who has had big games in the playoffs for Golden State and likes the big stage."
Barnes has played for five teams in his six-year career. Barnes had his best year in '06-07 where he averaged 9.8 points and 4.6 rebounds while shooting .366 percent from beyond the arc with the Warriors.
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Barnes' numbers dropped last season to 6.7 points and 4.4 rebounds, and he shot below 30 percent from three-point range.
Barnes gives Phoenix another player to use in their rotation, which consisted of Steve Nash, Raja Bell, Grant Hill, Amare Stoudemire, Shaquille O'Neal, Leandro Barbosa, and Boris Diaw. Barnes will add more depth to the Suns' small forward spot, and may even start over Hill.
The Suns appear to still be searching for a backup point guard and another big man. The Suns should covet Damon Stoudemire, Sam Cassell, and Jason Williams—who are the best point guards left on the free agency market.
Brian Skinner or Sean Marks should fill the void of another big man. Brian Skinner would add more defense, but Sean Marks would do the opposite, and add his limited offensive ability to the roster.
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about 1 month ago
I doubt Barnes could ever start over Grant Hill..that's just a little extreme over there. Nevertheless, I like this signing. He has practically done nothing for the Warriors last season, partly of course because of his mother's death, which explains his low numbers. Again, this is a solid deal for Steve Kerr and the Suns. Barnes will definitely bring in depth and he knows how to play the up tempo style which will help him adapt to the "real" up tempo style of the Suns. Plus, Chris Mullin didn't want him anyway, although he is one of the most loved players in the Bay. We'll miss ya Barnes.
from about 1 month ago
The reason I said Barnes could start over Hill is because the Suns want Hill to come off the bench after playing extended minutes last season and then suffering an injury right before the playoffs.
I like this signing.
I hope the Suns can sign Jason Williams too.
about 1 month ago
I don't understand why the Dubs couldn't, or wouldn't offer him a minimum deal? WTF???
about 1 month ago
I wish Dajuan Wagner didn't have so many health problems, he is a forgotten name since his career was full of all injuries but he could run a backup point and be a scorer as well..... his contract ends in the Polish leagues August 31. Don't forget he was the #6 overall pick in 2002 and averaged 13.4 points for the Cavs that season before injuries started taking affect.... he can still play though I am sure of this
from about 1 month ago
Yeah the guy was a great player. The Suns staff are the best at resurrecting players careers. I just haven't heard anything on this guy returning in the NBA though. I hope the Suns can get Shaun Livingston though.
from about 1 month ago
Livingston needs another year to get back from the knee injury, if I were him I would go play overseas to rehabilitate the knee and then come back to the NBA for the 2009-2010 season
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