Why Sabonis was ‘very shocked’ Monk re-signed with Kings initially appeared on NBC Sports activities Bay Space
Followers who weren’t certain if Malik Monk would return to the Kings after coming into NBA free company in the course of the offseason weren’t alone, as one in all his All-Star teammates was shocked the dynamic guard re-signed with Sacramento.
Throughout Domantas Sabonis’ youth basketball camp in Rocklin on Sunday, the Kings massive man revealed he anticipated Monk to finish up on a distinct group primarily based on their conversations in the course of the 2023-24 NBA season.
“I used to be truly very shocked,” Sabonis instructed reporters (h/t Brenden Nunes). “I used to be speaking to him loads in the course of the yr and I assumed we actually misplaced him, however I am comfortable he stayed. I believe it is the most effective choice for him and for us.”
Domantas Sabonis on Malik Monk re-signing in Sacramento:
“I used to be truly very shocked.. he’s one of the crucial necessary gamers on our group and having him, on and off the courtroom, has helped us loads these final two years.” pic.twitter.com/zbugLhRNJA
— Brenden Nunes (@BrendenNunesNBA) August 25, 2024
When requested concerning the monetary sacrifice Monk made to remain in Sacramento, Sabonis playfully prompt that the 26-year-old guard stayed with the Kings to proceed being teammates with him.
“I simply suppose he did not wish to depart me, that is the primary factor,” Sabonis mentioned with a smile. “I am comfortable he is right here. He is one of the crucial necessary gamers on our group. Having him on and off the courtroom with us has helped us loads these final three years.”
Monk signed a four-year, $78 million contract with Sacramento in July, permitting the Kings to retain one in all their most necessary gamers because the franchise continues to hunt a deep NBA playoff run.
Monk completed second in NBA Sixth Man of the 12 months Award voting in the course of the 2023-24 season, averaging 15.4 factors, 5.1 assists and a pair of.9 rebounds in 26 minutes per recreation whereas serving as Sacramento’s main spark plug off the bench.
The 26-year-old guard may very well be in line for a beginning position this season, however most significantly, will get to proceed sharing the courtroom with Sabonis, who wasn’t certain that was a risk earlier than Monk in the end determined to return.
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