Barnes is very good, but Saint-Maximin is coming off a very good season. Maybe Howe thinks this is as good as he can be and to sell him while his value is maximised? I rate Howe's judgement in general, but this seems a peculiar move.
@Fruan I can certainly see this card being a problem. I'd have to experience a few games with it first. My group tends to play mid-power - decks that are too strong get frowned upon, so it's possible that this card will have more of an effect in cEDH.