On July 6, 2024, the Sacramento Kings announced that free agent guard Malik Monk had agreed to a four-year, $78 million contract to remain with the team. This deal, which includes a player option in the fourth year, was the maximum contract the Kings could offer Monk using their early Bird rights
Monk, 26, has been a pivotal figure for the Kings since joining them in 2022, reuniting with childhood friend and former Kentucky teammate De’Aaron Fox. Over the past two seasons, Monk has evolved into one of the NBA’s premier bench players. In the 2023–24 season, he played 72 games off the bench, averaging 15.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game. His performance earned him the runner-up spot for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award
Despite a knee injury that sidelined him for the final nine games of the regular season and the play-in tournament, Monk’s impact was undeniable. He led the NBA in points and assists off the bench that season and became one of only two players in the past 25 years to record over 1,000 points and 300 assists as a reserve
Kings head coach Mike Brown emphasized Monk’s importance to the team, stating, “It’s just as easy to see how important Malik is for our organization. He is loved by his teammates, the organization, and the city” citeturn0search1. Monk himself expressed his desire to stay, saying, “I’m comfortable in Sacramento. I’d love to play here again, for sure”
The Kings’ decision to retain Monk underscores their commitment to building a competitive team. His re-signing provides stability and depth to the backcourt, ensuring that the Kings maintain their momentum in the Western Conference.
With Monk’s return, the Kings aim to build upon their recent successes and continue their pursuit of an NBA championship.
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