The Lakers have always been known for their precision-based triangle offense, but the addition of free agent Matt Barnes gives the Lakers a defensive element that few teams can boast.
Barnes, Ron Artest, and Kobe Bryant just might be the NBA's best trio of perimeter defenders, and their versatility allows them to impact the game in a variety of ways.
Artest is a former NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and although he doesn't possess the same quickness as when he won the award, he's still one of the more physical defenders in the league.
Size and strength are Artest's best weapons, and it doesn't hurt that his reputation as one of the more unpredictable players in the league gives him an aura of intimidation.
During a road game against the Boston Celtics last season, Artest and Celtics' forward Kevin Garnett became entangled while jawing back and forth after a Lakers' bucket.
Garnett ended up sprawled on the floor and grinning up at Artest who returned Garnett's smirk with his own icy glare.
It was a defining moment for the Lakers, because until then, most of the NBA perceived them to be soft. Artest's rough and physical presence helped change that perception.
Artest is still vulnerable to players who are quicker, but Barnes has more quickness and while he may not be as strong as Artest, he does have quite a bit of power in his 6'7" frame.
Barnes could end up being the Lakers' most significant addition in the last few seasons besides Artest, because he blends seamlessly with Los Angeles' goal to get tougher defensively.
Barnes is equally adept at either wing position, and the Lakers' shouldn't su...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
