Ex-Clipper Barnes ‘destined to be’ a Grizzly, GM says

Former Los Angeles Clippers forward Matt Barnes, despised by Grizzlies fans for his aggressive play, defensive tenacity, 3-point shooting was introduced July 28.

Barnes, 35, appeared at a media conference at FedExForum, smiling and expressing an appreciation for joining a team with the same approach to basketball he embraces.

Barnes was acquired June 26 from the Charlotte Hornets for guard Luke Ridnour. Barnes averaged 10.1 points, 4 rebounds and 1.5 assists in a career-high 29.9 minutes per game last season. “If there’s any player who was destined to be a Grizzly, it’s Matt Barnes,” said general manager Chris Wallace.

Here are highlights from an interview session with Barnes:

Q. Were you surprised to initially be traded from the Clippers (to Charlotte)?

A. There were some things that went on there, but I wasn’t totally surprised. I was surprised that I was the first trade of free agency. When it happened, early on, I spoke to my agent and said I’m a little too old to help (Charlotte) rebuild. Then we started talking to Charlotte about a possible (trade) situation. They said if we don’t trade you by draft day we’ll talk again. I woke up at 9 o’clock on draft day, not really realizing it was draft day, and I got a text saying I had been traded to Memphis. I was like, OK.

Q. What was the scouting report on the Grizzlies when you were with the Clippers?

A. I just knew anytime coming in here, whether it was with the Clippers or, I knew we were going to be in a war. This is a team that is going to grind it out, literally, for 48 minutes (and) overtime. However long it takes, you’re going to get beat up and you better be ready to play. That’s kind of the way I’ve always approached my own game. The mindset when I was with the Clippers was just (to) be ready to go.

Q. How have the multiple stops during your NBA career affected you or your game?

A. I think it’s just made me appreciate the journey more. People think once you’re drafted you’ve made it, and that’s probably the furthest thing from the truth. My career has been a roller-coaster (with) a lot of ups and a lot of downs. I have a different appreciation for the game and that’s the reason I play so hard every night: (because) it could be my last.

Q. Talking about Tony (Allen) — you are regarded as two of the best defenders in the league — is there something he does that impresses you?

A. He is just a ballhawk and I love that. You have to gamble sometimes, and it seems like every time I see him gambling, it works. I don’t know if coach is going to let me do that as much. But I love his aggressiveness. I think a lot of people come into this league wanting to score 20 or 30 points, and that’s how you can really get weeded out fast. I think understanding my role has been the key to my longevity. And knowing that I’m a defensive-first type guy — rebounds and hustle plays — it’s allowed me to expand my game on the offensive end. I think Tony has figured that out as well. We’re definitely both defense-first type guys. It’s going to be an honor playing next to that dude this season.