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.
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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