Who remembers the Score’s? They were that lovable 2018-2019 Kings team that came close to breaking the streak. Led by Iman Shumpert’s swagger, Dave Joerger’s incessant screaming, and an up-tempo pace that showcased the potential of De’Aaron Fox, the Scores came tantalizingly close to breaking the playoff drought. Unfortunately, Shumpert’s time with the Kings was short-lived as he was traded to the Rockets mid-season in exchange for a medium Baja Blast from Taco Bell and a late 2nd round pick.
During his time with the Kings, Shumpert made an effort to establish himself as a starting-level small forward. However, it became evident that his athleticism and quickness had declined. Despite this setback, he consistently brought a high level of passion, energy, and undeniable charisma to the team. Now, stepping into the role of the spiritual successor to the player who brought the ruckus, Malik Monk has emerged as a true game-changer for the current Kings team. In comparison to Shumpert’s impact, Monk’s contributions mean so much more, elevating the team’s performance to new heights.
At just 25 years old, Malik Monk is still a couple of years away from reaching his prime. Initially drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2017, he faced an uphill battle in finding a consistent role within the team. With established players like Kemba Walker, Nicolas Batum, Jeremy Lamb, Devonte’ Graham, Terry Rozier, and even Tony ‘double checks the page’ Parker ahead of him, Monk had to navigate a crowded rotation. But hey, at least he can say he shared the court with a legend!
However, things took an exciting turn when Monk joined the LA Lakers in the 2021-2022 season. Given his first true opportunity as both a part-time starter and part-time sixth man, Monk truly showcased his potential. The breakout season saw him achieve career highs in various statistical categories such as points, rebounds, assists, and shooting efficiency, boasting an impressive 47% field goal percentage.
But perhaps his most impressive and impactful season came when he joined the Kings this past year. Embracing his role as the new “Shump man”, Monk brought a much-needed energy and enthusiasm to the team. He quickly developed fantastic chemistry with Domantas Sabonis and had a miraculous effect on De’Aaron Fox’s dunking abilities. Monk’s impact wasn’t limited to the court; he also positively influenced team morale and culture behind the scenes.
It’s remarkable to see the strong bond that Monk has developed with his teammates beyond the basketball court. A shining example of this is his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the Sacramento community. One such instance is his recent partnership with Keegan Murray for a charitable cause during the Midtown Church Golf Tournament.
As the postseason arrived, Monk elevated his game to another level. He boosted his scoring by 40%, from 13.5 points per game to an impressive 19 points per game. Additionally, he more than doubled his rebounding average from 2.6 to 5.4, proving crucial in gang rebounding situations where Kevon Looney was dominating the boards.
Overall, Malik Monk’s journey in the NBA has been filled with challenges and setbacks. However, he has shown tremendous growth and resilience, proving to be a valuable asset for any team he plays for. With his contract set to expire after this year, it is expected that the market rate for Monk has significantly increased, potentially reaching the likes of Jordan Clarkson’s three-year, $55 million extension earlier this off-season with the Jazz. Such an investment would be worthwhile considering the belief that Monk’s best performances are yet to come, while also acknowledging the irreplaceable impact he’s had on the team thus far..
If I were to make a prediction, Malik Monk should be a favorite for the 6th Man of the Year award. He has flourished in a well-defined role for the Kings, who have emerged as perennial playoff contenders. Furthermore, the increased national spotlight on the Kings, with 22 national TV games scheduled, further highlights Monk’s opportunity to showcase his skills and make a significant impact. Most Vegas books currently have his chances sitting at a tempting 10 to 1. It’s time for the world to take notice and witness Monk’s rise to 6th Man glory!
The double handed 3 ball hand symbol and skip swagger, the in-your face attitude, the hot streak scoring, the in the lane passes, the Wildcat Strike with De’Aaron, a super free throw shooter and that includes in the clutch, the Garrison Mathews incident, the Band-Aid – if nothing else, Malik (did you know that means King in Arabic?) Monk is pure excitement.
I could do without the forced, trying too hard, keeps on trying anyway, wild turnover Monk – but that is part of his charm I suppose.
I don’t think Malik Monk will displace Kevin Huerter in the starting line up, but he is easily the first off the bench.
An easy guy to root for and fun as anyone on the team to watch.
oh, and welcome Zack Venero!
Malik Monk is one of my three favorite Kings period. Any coach including myself would love to have him on their team. Everybody knows why. Ask Fox. Ask Sabonis. Ask Brown. Enough said,
What’s next for Monk?
MoneyMoneyMoneyMoney,
MONEYYYYYYY.
So the Kings have his early bird rights. Do you think he gets the 175% of his current deal, which would start around $17.5M. Is he worth that to the Kings? That would be more than what Huerter makes, and just shy of Barnes money.
I guess part of me wonders if someone like Sasha or even Mitchell beat him out as the de facto 6th man on the team.
A lot of factors yet to come into focus, but I can envision a scenario where Huerter is traded for expiring deals or picks in order to keep Monk. KH has two reasonable years left on his deal, and I doubt that he’d be hard to move.
I do think that Monk has a positive effect on Fox, just by virtue of being such great friends.
Ideally, both Monk and Huerter will crush it this year, and there will be a tough decision, or McNair will figure out a way to keep both. Just so many unknowns right now. At this moment, if I could only keep one, it would be Ahmad.
Here’s to tough decisions!
Agreed. It’s too early to tell and Monte basically has “good problems.” He has a ton of options going forward and the players may make his decisions even easier. If Monk and Huerter kill it, Murray takes another step or two, and Sasha brings his “best player in Europe” routine to Sac, I’m guessing we won’t even be thinking about players’ future well into June because the Kings will be playing meaningful games up until then.
You hit on an underrated point of the Monk and Fox chemistry. That is something that should not be overlooked..
Hey we’re fans- if the Kings went 98-0 (101-0 with new tourney?) we’d be wondering why there weren’t more blow outs.
It’s part of the fun of Armchair GM-ing: we have a responsibility to tinker, worry, question, then second guess, mock, defend and “what about” every issue, every player, every coach and GM decision every moment available. Don’t even get me started on the officiating.
And just so we’re clear – I haven’t lost a game yet! Which means I’m right!
…about being an idiot.
I just want to see him be more consistent with production.
I like everything else about his game.
I like Monk. I love the energy he brings, the joy he exudes, and his vital role to the team. He’s currently the Kings best 6th man, and likely the best option at 3rd PG. I do think his numbers will slip a bit this season with the growth of Keegan and the addition of Sasha, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be a key contributor.
All that being said, he’s a streaky, average shooting, role player on an expiring deal, and there are others in the league like him. Vivek is going to have to start cutting larger checks to keep this core together, and Monk is next on the list. Maybe Monte can get him to return on team friendly deal next summer or maybe his contract is used in a larger “swing for the fences” move later this season.
Interested to learn what parts of his game Monk has worked on in the off-season. He is an outstanding penetrator and pick-and-roll distributor. Defensively he makes a difference doing alot of little things. I see him and Davion being able to work together for high production while DeAaron and Huerter get a breather. Ideally all 4 can work in any tandem, in addition to having bigs (Sabonis, Barnes) push the ball up the court. Biggest factor I see for the Kings to do even better this year and go farther in playoffs is defense. Not sure what Coach Brown is working on but would love to find out more, Kings Herald!
Monk, Huerter and Murray – all dudes that can take leaps next season.
What’s next for Malik Monk?
Saying something to turn Fox on…probably.
Badge Legend