After two seasons with the Lakers, Matt Barnes may continue playing his home games in the Staples Center while wearing a different uniform. According to Sam Amick of SI.com, Barnes is close to signing with the Clippers, and could formalize a deal later this week.
Amick indicates that Chris Paul would play a role in luring Barnes back to Los Angeles, as the point guard "would love to make Barnes the latest addition" to a Clippers team that has involved Paul in its decision-making process. Barnes has also drawn interest from the Lakers, Nets, and Heat, according to Amick.
If Barnes were to sign with the Clippers, it would have to be for the minimum salary, since the club used its full mid-level exception to sign Jamal Crawford and its bi-annual exception to add Grant Hill. The Clippers currently have 14 contracts (13 guaranteed) on their books, so Barnes would almost certainly be assured of a roster spot for the regular season.