Metta World Peace, still intimidating, frightens off Tyler Hansbrough

By Eric Pincus

Oct. 22, 2013 2:03 PM PT

Toronto Raptors forward Tyler Hansbrough, whose nickname is “Psycho T.,” quickly backed down from a physical confrontation with Metta World Peace on Monday.

Now with the New York Knicks, World Peace remains one of the most intimidating players in the NBA -- something the Lakers may come to miss this season.

The Lakers parted ways with forward World Peace in July, using their onetime amnesty to cut him loose.

While the team still owes him $7.7 million for the coming season, the luxury tax savings were about $15 million -- making World Peace an economic casualty.

No hard feelings from World Peace, who left in good spirits and signed with his hometown Knicks.

One of the biggest questions of the season for the Lakers, outside of Kobe Bryant’s recovery from Achilles surgery, is newcomer Wesley Johnson and his ability to affect the game defensively for the Lakers.

Johnson adds an athleticism that was missing from the team’s roster last year, but does he have the skill -- and more importantly, the toughness -- to be a defensive stopper for the Lakers?

When it comes to intimidation, Johnson isn’t likely to get Psycho T. to back away in the same situation.

World Peace gave his thoughts, as he always seems to do, on Twitter.

Tyler Hansbrough is a tough kid. Stop be silly people!!! He is going to be a champ one day. Keep being tough Tyler!!— Metta World Peace (@MettaWorldPeace) October 22, 2013

I would play on Tyler’s team anyday.. you guys are silly!! Stop adding fire to pre season ball. Fighting doesnt make u tough. win’n does!— Metta World Peace (@MettaWorldPeace) October 22, 2013