Golden State Warriors

Andre Iguodala is trying to get Harrison Barnes paid this summer

Published Nov. 23, 2015 2:51 p.m. ET

foxsports

There is no award for Teammate of the Year, but if there were, Golden State Warriors supersub Andre Iguodala would likely be the leading candidate yet again.

Last season, Iguodala accepted a role off the bench so that Harrison Barnes could feel more comfortable and expand his game -- no easy task for a former All-Star. He also publicly stated his intention to get Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green paid at the end of their current contracts.

Most players want the best for their teammates, but Iguodala took it a step further and campaigned for it -- even if a higher tax bill for the Warriors ultimately means he has to be traded or sign elsewhere. Thompson ended up signing a four-year extension worth almost $69 million; Green ended up signing a five-year, $82 million deal. That wasn't all because of Iguodala, obviously, but any amount of support helps.

This season, Iguodala is continuing his teammate propaganda, this time for Barnes, who will be a restricted free agent this summer.

Here's what Iguodala had to say about Barnes, via CSN Bay Area:

The plan seems to be working. Barnes is playing the best basketball of his career, averaging career highs in points (14.2), shooting (50.0 percent) and minutes (31.2). His ability to move up to power forward and adeuqately defend 4s in invaluable, and that -- combined with his athleticism, shooting and age -- will get him a max or near-max offer this summer.

Ultimately, Barnes will likely have to choose between having a larger role and more money elsewhere, or staying with the Dubs and having a chance at a dynasty, but probably accepting under his market value.

Barnes will get paid one way or another, though, and he can thank Iguodala for willing taking a step back and supporting his younger teammate.

(h/t ProBasketballTalk)

"He’s always been a focused player. And coming from where he’s come from, it’s a difficult adjustment – being the man, then kind of taking a step back then they want you take a step forward. He’s handled it like a professional. He’s always kept himself ready.

"Contract year, so we’re going to continue to help him get as much as possible. He’s a hard-worker, so it’s going to happen for hard workers."