 In 2008–09, Barea's role on the team increased dramatically.Injuries to Jerry Stackhouse, Josh Howard, and Jason Terry saw Barea's minutes per game double as coach Rick Carlisle began regularly using a three-guard lineup which included Jason Kidd, Jason Terry, and Barea to spark an offensive streak in games.On February 20, 2009, Barea scored a then career high 26 points during an 86–93 loss to the Houston Rockets.