Comparing Harrison Barnes to Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist signed a four-year extension worth $52 million on Tuesday with the Charlotte Hornets, a stunning price for someone that has not performed to his draft pick status. Kidd-Gilchrist was the second overall pick in the 2012 draft and has certainly not lived up to that potential. Another player from that draft is the Golden State Warriors’ own, Harrison Barnes, who was drafted seventh overall and has had a much bigger impact in the NBA. Barnes has been a part of three playoff teams in Oakland, including a championship squad in 2015, while Kidd-Gilchrist has been often injured and has enjoyed one postseason berth with the then Charlotte Bobcats.

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Both players have similarities and differences in their game. Both are extremely athletic and can jump out of the gym. Both are tough competitors and sacrifice for their respective teams. Barnes has done so by being the fourth option on a championship team, led by NBA MVP, Stephen Curry. His job is to spot up for threes in the corners and if the opportunity presents itself, drive to the hoop and get to the line.

Barnes has also had to deal with the signing of Andre Iguodala after a successful rookie season, getting moved to the bench. It turned out to be Barnes’ most frustrating season because he was looked upon to lead the second unit. Barnes needed to play with better players in order to maximize his potential and clearly he did that in his rookie and 3rd years with the Warriors.

Kidd-Gilchrist has not nearly had the success that Barnes has had. An All-Rookie 2nd team performer, Kidd-Gilchrist provides the Hornets with great athleticism and energy unmatched by any other small forward with the exception of LeBron James. Kidd-Gilchrist is looked at as one of the best defenders at his position and has a willingness to go after every loose ball, illustrated most by averaging almost eight rebounds per game.

Even though he has been injured for good parts of the last couple seasons, Kidd-Gilchrist has improved each season, especially his shooting ability. Known for only a slasher his first couple years, Kidd-Gilchrist has improved his jumper with the aid of former Hornets assistant coach, Mark Price, one of the best shooters in NBA history. Kidd-Gilchrist does not have three-point range yet, but can hit a 15-footer with regularity and if he continues to work on his jumper, he will acquire that range.

Kidd-Gilchrist also provides the Hornets with a winning mentality. With Kidd-Gilchrist in the lineup, the Hornets were 27-28, and only 6-21 without him. He makes the Hornets better defensively and on the glass, two key stats for a winning team. If Kidd-Gilchrist can stay healthy next season, the Hornets should have a great chance of making the postseason in the weak Eastern Conference.

Both players will be productive players for years to come, and with the recent extension of Kidd-Gilchrist, both will be earn lots of money in this game. It is likely Barnes will earn more than Kidd-Gilchrist because he is a more complete player. Barnes’ ability to hit the three makes him a more attractive player than Kidd-Gilchrist and should earn more because of it. This means the Warriors are looking at paying Barnes at least $15 million per year for their fourth option. It seems like a steep price but is essential to the team’s future success.

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