Matt Barnes Signs With The Other Team In L.A.

Jason O. Watson-US PRESSWIRE

Matt Barnes the Laker is no more. Matt Barnes the Clipper is once again.

Barnes has taken his talents to the other side of Staples to play for the Clippers. The Former Bruin inked a one-year deal with L.A.’s other hoops team bringing putting him back in the uniform in which his career began.

As a Laker Barnes was plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. His defensive toughness and three-point shooting was expected to add more depth to a thin a Lakers’ bench but in the end his age might have finally gotten the best of Barnes. He showed plenty of flashes of his trademark style of play but never for a prolonged period.

Known for his high level of activity, tenacious style of defense and a tough-nosed brand of ball Barnes was once an enemy of Kobe Bryant’s yet was expected to be valued asset upon his arrival in Purple and Gold. While he did match his career best average in rebounds during the 2011-12 season most Lakers faithful will only remember Barnes’ lack of productivity during yet another second round exit from the playoffs.