In response to the concerns of Golden State Warriors fans regarding Matt Barnes' past and current off-court issues, Warriors Coach Steve Kerr told the media that he is very much comfortable with the veteran forward being on the team. In his recent comments, Kerr referenced the third-degree misdemeanor assault charges that Barnes is currently facing stemming from an alleged December 5 altercation at a club in Manhattan.

According to ESPN.com, Kerr made his comments short after announcing that Barnes would make his first ever start for the Warriors in Sunday's game against the New York Knicks. "The team is aware of Matt's legal situation, and we will see how that plays out. We are very much comfortable with the process, and I'm comfortable with Matt," Kerr told ESPN.

"I actually had him during my tenure in Phoenix, and he was a really great teammate. I enjoyed being around him, so I'm more than confident that everything will be fine. But as for the legal stuff, it has to handle itself."

Barnes and former Sacramento Kings teammate DeMarcus Cousins are currently facing a civil suit related to the December 5 incident. Filed by plaintiffs Myrone Powell and Jasmine Besiso in a U.S. District Court in New York, the lawsuit alleges that Barnes grabbed Besiso by her neck and started strangling her at approximately 3 A.M. ET, right after a fight broke out in the VIP section of the club.

The Warriors went on to sign Barnes on the evening of February 28, after all-star forward Kevin Durant suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain and bone bruise during Golden State's game against the Washington Wizards. According to Christian News Today, the Warriors initially signed Jose Calderon but elected to waive the Spanish guard in order to make room for Barnes.

Barnes, at age 36, recorded three points, three rebounds, two assists, two steals and a block in 19 minutes of action Sunday night in the Warriors' 112-105 victory over the Knicks. More updates will be coming with regards to Barnes' situation in Golden State.

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