Why Sabonis was ‘very surprised’ Monk re-signed with Kings

Why Sabonis was ‘very surprised’ Monk re-signed with Kings originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Fans who weren’t sure if Malik Monk would return to the Kings after entering NBA free agency during the offseason weren’t alone, as one of his All-Star teammates was shocked the dynamic guard re-signed with Sacramento.

During Domantas Sabonis‘ youth basketball camp in Rocklin on Sunday, the Kings big man revealed he expected Monk to end up on a different team based on their conversations during the 2023-24 NBA season.

“I was actually very surprised,” Sabonis told reporters (h/t Brenden Nunes). “I was talking to him a lot during the year and I thought we really lost him, but I’m happy he stayed. I think it’s the best decision for him and for us.”

When asked about the financial sacrifice Monk made to stay in Sacramento, Sabonis playfully suggested that the 26-year-old guard stayed with the Kings to continue being teammates with him.

“I just think he didn’t want to leave me, that’s the main thing,” Sabonis said with a grin. “I’m happy he’s here. He’s one of the most important players on our team. Having him on and off the court with us has helped us a lot these last three years.”

Monk signed a four-year, $78 million contract with Sacramento in July, allowing the Kings to retain one of their most important players as the franchise continues to seek a deep NBA playoff run.

Monk finished second in NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award voting during the 2023-24 season, averaging 15.4 points, 5.1 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 26 minutes per game while serving as Sacramento’s primary spark plug off the bench.

The 26-year-old guard could be in line for a starting role this season, but most importantly, gets to continue sharing the court with Sabonis, who wasn’t sure that was a possibility before Monk ultimately decided to return.

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