Matt Barnes: ‘Violence is never the answer, but sometimes it is’

Memphis Grizzlies forward Matt Barnes had some pointed words for New York Knicks coach Derek Fisher.

Memphis Grizzlies forward Matt Barnes had some pointed words for Derek Fisher ahead of Saturday’s game between the Grizzlies and New York Knicks.

Barnes reportedly punched Fisher in the face during the off-season while Fisher was at the home of Barnes’s ex-wife. Barnes was suspended two games for the incident, and recently filed a grievance with the NBA in attempt to recoup the salary lost from the suspension.

Saturday, Barnes made it clear he was still not a fan of Fisher.

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Matt Barnes on Derek Fisher ahead of tonight’s game: “I just don’t like him. Plain and simple. He knows I don’t like him.”

— Scott Cacciola (@ScottCacciola) January 16, 2016

More Barnes: “Every man who looks at the situation knows what’s right and wrong. Violence is never the answer, but sometimes it is.”

— Scott Cacciola (@ScottCacciola) January 16, 2016

Barnes said he wouldn't confront Fisher tonight because Fisher "already took one L. So what's the point?"

— Scott Cacciola (@ScottCacciola) January 16, 2016

Barnes scored just two points on free throws as Memphis defeated New York 103–95 at FedExForum on Saturday. Entering the game, Barnes was averaging 9.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game for Memphis this season. 

The Knicks are 20–22 through the first 42 games of Fisher’s second season as head coach. Memphis improved to 23–19.