Matt Barnes Injury: Updates on Grizzlies Star's Thumb and Return
Memphis Grizzlies forward Matt Barnes was dealing with a thumb injury, which kept him out of Tuesday's game against the Houston Rockets. However, he is ready to make his return.
Continue for updates.
Barnes Active vs. Pistons
Thursday, Jan. 14
Barnes is available to play against the Detroit Pistons on Thursday, per Rob Fischer of Fox Sports Southeast.
Barnes' Versatility Has Been Key to Grizzlies' Success
Barnes may not be as important as superstars Marc Gasol or Mike Conley (who was also out Tuesday with a sore Achilles) in the Grizzlies attack, but he is a solid source of defense on the wing and can stretch the floor on the other end with his three-point stroke. Memphis relies on him to hit that shot when defenses collapse on Conley’s penetration or Gasol and Zach Randolph on the blocks.
Last season for the Los Angeles Clippers, Barnes averaged 10.1 points and 4.0 rebounds per game behind 36.2 percent shooting from three-point range. He is averaging 8.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per night this year. His versatility at 6’7” gives Memphis a few different options with its lineup, as Barnes can play on small or big units.
