The New York Knicks and Free Agent wing man Matt Barnes were in serious talks for most of the off-season, until now.
According to Barnes’ agent, Aaron Goodwin, the talks went no where most likely because Knicks head coach, Mike Woodson, was not interested in the 6’7 forward.
This decision, if indeed was influenced by Woodson’s lack of interest, is one that the Knicks may regret. Months after the Miami Heat dismantled the Knicks in 5 games, IN THE FIRST ROUND, one would think a defensive, long range shooter is something the head coach would be on board with. Barnes, a 9 year vet from UCLA, is an above average defender, with long arms and a knack to hit key shots during important runs within the course of a game. He would fit nicely in the Knicks game plan. With Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire clogging the middle, a spot up 3-point shooter not named Steve Novak, who was a non factor in the first round series thanks to the stifling defense of Miami, is something the Knicks greatly need.
While Barnes’s is a solid role player, he does have his draw backs, which may have lead coach Woodson to be hesitant to bring him on board. Barnes’ has been racked with injuries the last seasons, missing up to 30 games in that time span. Barnes also has a history of being on the wrong side of the law. One most recently in July for a traffic violation and resisting arrest. With the law troubles that new Knick point guard Jason Kidd got himself into with his DUI charge recently, it would makes sense that the head coach did not want more off court issues.
With the sophomore guard Iman Shumpert out until December, Barnes would have been a perfect fit. The Knicks instead, signed shooting guard Ronnie Brewer to be their defensive wing.
Only time will tell if this is a smart move for the Knickerbockers. With rumors of the Los Angeles Clippers courting Barnes, making their roster all the more formidable, the Knicks may want to forget about this decision.
The Knicks have only one spot open in their roster, and are rumored to be in search for a big man to fill it. With only Novak and J.R. Smith as their primary deep ball threats, and with the Heat, Thunder, Celtics and Spurs all in the higher echelon of 3-point shooting, (all made their respective conference finals), it would behoove the Knicks to sign a Barnes-like player, if one is still available, T-mac maybe……
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September 12, 2012
