Former Lakers forward hopes to have LeBron James and Steph Curry on NBA team

Retired NBA veteran Matt Barnes enjoyed a successful post-playing career as a sports analyst and host of the popular podcast “All The Smoke.” Barnes was a notable member of the legendary “We Believe” Warriors – and after stints with other teams, he ended his Golden State career by winning a championship in 2016-2017.

During an interview with Responsible Gambler’s DJ Siddiqi, Barnes talked about how he expects this 2024-25 Warriors team to produce the same results they did a season ago, which will put them back in a play-in tournament scenario.

“I think the West is tough. The West is a tough and young conference now, which is crazy when you look at Oklahoma City and how much better they have gotten. You look at Minnesota, you look at Dallas. Denver is still there, I expect Houston to make a big jump this year, Sacramento has DeMar DeRozan. So I don’t think it’s going to be an easy road, I think they’ll have a chance – if the team doesn’t gel with any other movement – I think they’ll probably be in a play-in situation, but they’ve got some young talented ones too Pieces,” Barnes said.

Barnes’ concerns stem from the makeup of the Warriors roster, as the team doesn’t have anyone who stands out other than Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

“It’s a difficult situation,” Barnes said. “I respect that this team has retained a lot of its core during the time when stars are moving and jumping around. As a fan of the game, obviously with Klay losing, I hate it when that happens. But at the same time.” “I feel like the team felt like they had to try to do something to maximize Steph’s final years in this league.”

As the 36-year-old Curry faces questions about how much longer he can play at the All-Star level, Barnes spoke with Siddiqi about the idea of ​​Lebron James and the greatest jump shooter of all time playing together before deciding to do so it a career.

“I selfishly hope so,” admitted Barnes. “Two of the greatest ever, two of the greatest of my generation. The way they compete, the way Bron can handle the ball and make plays. I think at this stage of the game – although he can still do it – I don’t think Bron wants to be the top scorer like he did in the Olympics so it doesn’t put as much strain on his body.

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