It is ridiculous to even consider handing over the title of "Best perimeter defender in Raptors history" over to a player who is yet to actually play a game for the team.
Many sports writers, annalists, pundits and Raptors fans alike are too keen on prematurely crowing, comparing and classifying athletes.
Note, I am not taking anything away from Matt Barnes. I think he is a solid defender and a good "glue" guy with a great motor. Yet, defending is all about want to, communication and help. The tenacious defensive effort Barnes put forth while in Orlando may have been a result of the teams success as a legitimate championship contender. Perhaps the luxury of Dwight Howard's shot blocking aloud Barnes the freedom to roam around and cut off passing lanes?
Bottom line is that Raptors fans have been scorned too many times to continue to expect equal or greater production from free agents who come to the team following successful free agent campaigns - Hedo Turkoglu should serve as a bitter reminder.
Get High Monkey
Many sports writers, annalists, pundits and Raptors fans alike are too keen on prematurely crowing, comparing and classifying athletes.
Note, I am not taking anything away from Matt Barnes. I think he is a solid defender and a good "glue" guy with a great motor. Yet, defending is all about want to, communication and help. The tenacious defensive effort Barnes put forth while in Orlando may have been a result of the teams success as a legitimate championship contender. Perhaps the luxury of Dwight Howard's shot blocking aloud Barnes the freedom to roam around and cut off passing lanes?
Bottom line is that Raptors fans have been scorned too many times to continue to expect equal or greater production from free agents who come to the team following successful free agent campaigns - Hedo Turkoglu should serve as a bitter reminder.
Get High Monkey
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