Matt Barnes Questions Mike Brown’s Fit with the Knicks
The Los Angeles Lakers’ former player, Matt Barnes, has publicly expressed skepticism regarding Mike Brown’s potential success with the New York Knicks. Speaking candidly on the “Straight Game Podcast,” Barnes shared his doubts, suggesting that Brown’s character traits may not align with the demands of coaching in New York.
Concerns About Leadership
Barnes, who spent a brief stint with the Knicks in 2005, labeled Brown as a “great person” but raised serious concerns about his leadership abilities. He emphasized that, to be successful, a coach must command the respect of their players. “Mike is such a nice guy,” Barnes remarked. “That’s what fs Mike up. Mike wants to be cool with everyone instead of putting his foot down like, ‘this is my team, this is what’s going on.'”
This perspective stems from Barnes’ own experiences alongside Brown during their time with the Lakers. He recalled how star players like Kobe Bryant and Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly Ron Artest) would dominate the locker room dynamics, often undermining Brown’s authority. “They used to sub themselves in and out of games,” he noted, which highlighted the challenges Brown faced in asserting himself as the head coach.
Learning from the Past
Reflecting on Brown’s coaching journey, Barnes acknowledged that some of Brown’s best growth occurred during his time with the Golden State Warriors under head coach Steve Kerr. “I think Mike Brown is a great second chair,” Barnes stated. “There’s such a night and day difference sitting in the head coaching chair.”
Under Brown’s leadership, the Lakers had a 41-25 record during the lockout-shortened 2011-12 season, ultimately losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs. However, following a dismal start to the next season, Brown was one of the quickest in-season firings in NBA history, underscoring the high expectations that come with the role.
The Challenge Ahead in New York
Since his departure from the Lakers, Brown has found revival with the Warriors, contributing to a championship run in 2017 as an associate head coach. Despite this success, Barnes remains unconvinced that Brown can replicate it in New York. He pointed to Brown’s struggles with the Sacramento Kings, where he lost player respect after initially breaking a lengthy playoff drought.
“Now you’re going to a New York media market that’s trying to eat you up, every mistake,” Barnes cautioned. “Mike is a good guy; I just don’t think the situation is going to work because he’s too nice for his own good.”
As Barnes and others watch closely, the upcoming season will reveal whether Brown can navigate the demanding landscape of New York basketball.