From Pau Gasol to Joe Smith: Assigning Each Laker A Nickname

Matt Barnes – The Security Guard

Matt Barnes is known for his feisty presence on the defensive end and as someone who can shut down an opposing superstar.  Last year, Barnes irritated Kobe Bryant with his fierce defense.

Ironically, Barnes joined Kobe and Lakers in the summer of 2010.  Barnes came to the team with one job, and only job only – stop the opponents best scorer. Basically, Barnes’ job is similar to that of a security guard. A security guard protects his station from intruders, and Barnes protects the Lakers from prolific scorers.

Currently Matt Barnes is sidelined due to injury, and the Lakers are missing his defensive tenacity.  With Barnes in the lineup, the Lakers are an improved defensive and overall team.

For now, let the Security Guard rehab and get his knee back to 100%.

Next: Steve Blake

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