Matt Barnes has decided to to remain under contract with the Lakers and won't opt for free agency beginning in July, or whenever the lockout concludes. Tuesday he told ESPNLosAngeles.com that he exercised his $1.91 million option for next season. "I'll be a Laker next year," Barnes said. "I always knew what I was going to do." Barnes' role will again be to provide defense and depth at the small forward position next season. He only played in 53 games, due to a knee injury, and averaged 6.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists this past season.
