Matt Barnes Says He's 'Trying to Kill' Kings in Matchup with Warriors

The Sacramento Kings waived Matt Barnes in February to open a roster spot and complete a blockbuster deadline deal, and the veteran forward has vowed to exact revenge against his former employer. 

Speaking to reporters Thursday, the Golden State Warriors swingman said he wants to dismantle the Kings when they visit Oracle Arena for a Pacific Division showdown Friday night. 

"I’m trying to kill 'em," he said, according to the San Francisco Chronicle's Connor Letourneau. "Simple. Things didn’t go well there. They're the enemy now."

Barnes, 37, hasn't been shy when it comes to speaking out about how the Kings handled their February trade of DeMarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans.

Specifically, he told ESPN.com's Chris Haynes the optics were rather puzzling since the team had publicly stated for months that it didn't intend to part ways with the All-NBA big man in advance of the trade deadline. 

"They were so adamant about not trading him," Barnes said. "I mean, I understand this is a business and you got to do what’s best for the franchise, but when you go out of your way time and time again to say you’re not going to do something and then do something and not consulting someone is a funny way of handling it, to say the least."

As far as Friday's clash is concerned, the Warriors should have no problem taking care of their intrastate rival. 

The Warriors are already 2-1 against the Kings this season, and they won the most recent meeting on Feb. 15 by 23 points. Also consider Sacramento is 3-11 since the All-Star break, and another double-digit triumph would appear to be in order for the Dubs.