As the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, Malik Monk’s name continues to swirl in league circles - and for good reason. The Sacramento Kings guard has long been one of the league’s more dynamic sixth men, a microwave scorer who can tilt the momentum of a game in just a few possessions. But with his role shrinking under interim coach Doug Christie and his contract still carrying three more years, Monk is emerging as a prime trade chip - and one potential deal could bring a two-time NBA champion to Sacramento.
The Memphis Grizzlies, a team that’s struggled to find consistent guard play and offensive rhythm this season, have been linked to Monk in a trade proposal that’s starting to gain traction. The idea? Send Malik Monk to Memphis in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope - a veteran wing with championship pedigree - and possibly a young forward in GG Jackson.
Let’s unpack why this move could make sense for both sides.
Why Memphis Would Target Monk
The Grizzlies have been searching for answers in the backcourt all season. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued their guard rotation, and the offense has suffered because of it.
Monk, even in limited minutes this year, has shown he can still be a sparkplug off the bench. He’s the kind of player who can come in, run with the second unit, and put up double-digit points in a hurry - something Memphis has been sorely lacking.
The contract? Sure, Monk has three years remaining, but that’s not necessarily a deal-breaker.
If the Grizzlies are thinking long-term, they can view Monk as a controllable asset who still has room to grow - or as a piece they could flip down the line if things don’t work out. Either way, the risk feels manageable for a team that needs scoring now.
KCP Brings Championship DNA to Sacramento
From Sacramento’s perspective, the appeal of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is clear. He’s a proven winner, having hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy with both the Lakers in 2020 and the Nuggets in 2023. He brings perimeter defense, spot-up shooting, and a steady veteran presence - all things the Kings could use as they try to solidify themselves in the Western Conference playoff picture.
Caldwell-Pope’s contract lines up with Monk’s, making the financials relatively clean. But the Kings wouldn’t just be getting a seasoned 3-and-D wing - they’d also be adding a player who’s been through the grind of deep playoff runs. That kind of experience matters, especially for a young team still learning how to win consistently.
GG Jackson: A Wild Card Addition
Memphis could also toss in GG Jackson to sweeten the deal. The young forward showed promise during his rookie campaign, averaging 14.6 points per game, but his role has diminished significantly this season. He’s appeared in just 10 games and is averaging 4.4 points per contest.
While Jackson might not be in Memphis’ long-term plans, he could be an intriguing developmental piece for Sacramento. Pairing him with DeMar DeRozan and rising rookie Maxime Raynaud could give the Kings some frontcourt versatility and depth - especially if Jackson can rediscover some of the scoring touch he flashed early on.
Could Keon Ellis Be on the Move Too?
There’s also a scenario where Sacramento includes Keon Ellis in the deal. The young guard has shown flashes, particularly on the defensive end, but if Memphis is willing to throw in a couple of second-round picks, the Kings might be open to moving him as part of the package.
For Memphis, it would be a calculated gamble. They’d be acquiring Monk to fill a glaring need for bench scoring, and Ellis could give them another young, controllable guard to evaluate. Even if Monk isn’t a long-term fit, the Grizzlies would be adding immediate offensive punch - and that alone might be worth the price.
Monk’s Minutes Have Dwindled - But His Value Hasn’t
It’s no secret that Monk’s role has diminished under Doug Christie. In the two games leading up to Tuesday’s matchup with the Pistons, Monk logged just five total minutes. He did get 14 minutes against Detroit and chipped in nine points, but that kind of usage is a far cry from the impact he’s capable of making.
For a player with his scoring ability, a fresh start might be exactly what he needs - and Memphis could be the right landing spot.
Final Thoughts
This proposed deal isn’t about stars - it’s about fit. Monk gives Memphis a much-needed scoring jolt off the bench.
Caldwell-Pope provides Sacramento with a seasoned, playoff-tested wing who can defend and knock down threes. GG Jackson adds some upside for the Kings, while Keon Ellis and a couple of second-rounders could balance the scales for Memphis.
It’s not flashy. But it’s the kind of trade that makes both teams better in the short term - and potentially in the long term too. And with the trade deadline inching closer, deals like this - smart, strategic, and based on roster needs - are the ones worth watching.