Honestly, I can’t help but feel for Harrison Barnes after what he endured last night, as he was traded mid-game. The reaction was unexpected, and even though Barnes knew he’d be dealt, who would’ve thought he’d be traded as he was playing. Prior to the deadline the Kings and Mavericks completed the following trade:
Kings Receive: Harrison Barnes
Mavericks receive: Zach Randolph, Justin Jackson
This was a move based on the trade the Mavs previously made last week that involved Porzingis. Relieving themselves from Barnes’ $25 million player option for the 2019-20 NBA season puts Dallas in a great position to have a max salary spot for this summer. This was a deal that they weren’t putting much thought into. The Kings just threw two players into the mix and called it a night.
Barnes didn’t deserve to go out like he did last night, especially when Dallas plans to buyout Zach Randolph’s contract, and they might utilize Justin Jackson off the bench. Barnes’ 17.7 PPG and 4.3 RPG a game will help Sacramento out tremendously, making him the go-to option on the squad. He has some thinking to do this summer. I have no clue if he’ll opt-in next season or test free agency. Throughout his seven-year career, he’s been with playoff contenders (Warriors and Mavs), and he might want to do something similar this summer.
He needs to find a home in this league. I believe he can find one with the Kings. His numbers look great on paper, and his availability on a game-to-game basis is something that will benefit the Kings tremendously. He’s only missed seven games in the past three years. Barnes is shooting 40% from the field and is having a career year from three at 39%. He may not be able to lead a team, but with the Kings’ young core their future looks promising.
Sacramento has been rather active leading up to the deadline, acquiring G Alec Burks and now Barnes. Their projected starting line-up consists of:
- De’Aaron Fox
- Buddy Hield
- Harrison Barnes
- Nemanja Bejilica
- Willy Cauley-Stein
With a bench consisting of Marvin Bagley, Frank Mason, and Alec Burks the Kings have more depth to push for a playoff spot. You have to love the trade deadline!