Philly:The 76ers are close to adding a player. And it could be a familiar face, even though it technically could be someone who has never actually played for them.
The player in question could be 6-7 forward Matt Barnes, cut earlier this week by New York.
"We're optimistic," said Bill Neff, Barnes' agent. "We're hopeful that it gets done because, based on what they say they need, he could help."
Barnes came to the Sixers from Sacramento Feb. 23 of last season with Chris Webber and Michael Bradley in the trade for Kenny Thomas, Brian Skinner and Corliss Williamson, but never appeared in a game. He left in free agency after the season.
Barnes appeared in six games with the Knicks, making five starts, averaging 4.3 points and four rebounds in 15.5 minutes. He was dropped to allow the Knicks to sign Qyntel Woods. There was speculation that, since then, he was also contacted by the Washington Wizards.
Barnes was a second-round draft choice of the Memphis Grizzlies, the No. 46 overall pick, in 2002, but never played for them. He appeared in 38 games with the Los Angeles Clippers in '03-04, and in 43 games with the Kings last season.
The Sixers, with a full roster would have to waive someone to make room for a fresh face.
