The Sacramento Kings may be stumbling through a rough patch, but Malik Monk is doing everything he can to keep their pulse strong-and maybe raise a few eyebrows around the league while he’s at it.
Wednesday night’s 122-109 loss to the Toronto Raptors capped off a three-game skid for Sacramento, closing out what had otherwise been a solid seven-game homestand. But even as the team struggles to find its footing, Monk continues to shine.
The 27-year-old guard delivered yet another efficient scoring performance, dropping 17 points on 6-of-7 shooting in just 25 minutes. It was the third straight game where Monk looked locked in, and it couldn’t be coming at a better time with the trade deadline looming.
Let’s be clear: Monk isn’t just putting up numbers-he’s doing it with surgical precision. Over his last three games, he’s averaging 19.3 points while shooting an eye-popping 64% from the field and nearly 57% from beyond the arc.
That’s not just hot-that’s microwave-level heat. He’s letting the game come to him, not forcing the issue, and it’s paying off in a big way.
His patience, shot selection, and rhythm are all clicking at the right time.
And then there’s the flair. Monk’s game has always had a certain electricity to it, and he reminded everyone of that with a dazzling behind-the-back crossover into a two-handed slam against Toronto. That kind of play isn’t just highlight-reel material-it’s a calling card for teams looking for an instant-offense weapon off the bench.
Let’s not forget, this is the same Malik Monk who finished as the runner-up for Sixth Man of the Year in 2024. He’s proven he can be a game-changer in a supporting role, and that makes him an attractive piece for contenders looking to shore up their second unit.
Sacramento, meanwhile, has a real opportunity here. If they want to pivot toward the future, Monk’s trade value is peaking at the right moment.
He’s been a fan favorite in Sacramento, especially after becoming a key cog in their elite offensive machine during the 2022-23 season. But the Kings have to weigh sentiment against strategy. If there’s a chance to bring in a first-round pick or a promising young player who fits the timeline of their core, it’s worth exploring.
One name that’s floated around the rumor mill is Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga. The 23-year-old forward brings athleticism, upside, and a defensive presence that could complement Sacramento’s roster. A deal involving Monk and Kuminga would be intriguing for both sides, and it’s the kind of move that could help the Kings balance their current competitive aspirations with long-term growth.
Sacramento GM Scott Perry has a decision to make. Monk is playing some of the best basketball of his career, and his stock may never be higher. If the right offer comes along-especially one that brings back a young, high-ceiling talent-the Kings shouldn’t hesitate.
Monk’s recent surge is more than just a silver lining in a tough stretch. It’s a spotlight moment, and the league is watching.