After coming off a successful season with the Sacramento Kings, Harrison Barnes is up for free agency this offseason. The forward is coming off a solid season where he shot 37.4% from three-point range, and helped the Kings reach the playoffs for the first time since 2006.
So with the forward being available as a free agent, what are Barnes’ strengths and weaknesses?
Harrison Barnes Free Agent Profile
Barnes’ Strengths
Durability
While it may have been an issue in other years, Barnes played all 82 games and seven playoff games this past season. In 3 of the last four seasons, Barnes has played 70 or more games in 9 of his 11 seasons. Durability is a premium in today’s NBA. With players engaging in load management, Barnes is valuable because he is available and teams can count on him to play.
Wherever Barnes ends up, he is a durable player, and teams have confidence in consistent players.
Defensive Versatility
While he was more middle of the pack in defensive win shares, Barnes shows the ability to guard multiple wing offense players, bigs, and guards. His versatility allows him to find success defensively because of his size, intelligence, and athleticism.
Improved Three Point Shooting
Since 2018, Barnes has shot between 37 and 40% each season from three-point range. Barnes is a solid and improved spot-up shooter and teams can use him in that role. He helps to space and works hard to make this part of his game reliable.
Experience
Barnes played 11 seasons so far in his NBA Career and found success along the way. With the Warriors, he won a championship in 2015 and went to another finals in 2016. He was just on a Sacramento team that made the playoffs. His experience is attractive for teams looking to compete in the Playoffs, or an NBA Championship.
Harrison’s Weaknesses
Individual Playoff Success
While Barnes produces well in the regular season, the playoffs are a different story. While he averaged 15 ppg in the 2023 season, he only averaged 10.7 points and shot 24% from three. While he has the experience, the lack of individual success in the playoffs yields caution when investing in Barnes as a star player. He needs to adjust better in the postseason to gain confidence as a legit offensive option on a championship team.
Lack of Offensive Versatility
Barnes has good footwork and smart intelligence on offense, but he does not have a versatile offensive skill set. Barnes either rips and drives or shoots a three. He does not have a lot of wiggle in his dribbling skills and does not have a post-game. To get the most out of his game, he needs to add a midrange game and a post-up game. An improved offensive game will help him perform better in the playoffs.
Last Word
There is a lot to like when it comes to Harrison Barnes. Barnes is athletic, versatile on defense, and a solid three-point shooter with championship experience. Nevertheless, Barnes needs to improve his offensive skillset to make himself a better option for the Kings or another team that signs him.
With free agency underway, Barnes is an excellent prospect and will be an excellent get either running it back in Sacramento or signing with a future team.
