Barnes Blasts NBA Rookies: Is Effort Really a Rare Skill?

Matt Barnes recently criticized young players' attitudes on a show. He pointed out that some young players earn more through NIL deals in college than late-round draft picks, and he supports them making money given the extremely low odds of turning pro. However, he emphasized that once in the NBA, players should understand the responsibilities and privileges that come with it. Barnes expressed his dissatisfaction that "playing hard" is now treated as a rare skill. He believes that in the past, effort was a basic requirement — if you didn't work hard, you simply wouldn't play.