Malik Monk says struggling Kings need to talk before game against Minnesota Timberwolves
Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk shared his perspective on the team’s recent struggles after returning from injury in Monday’s 130-109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.
Monk made it clear he has “no concerns” about the team’s ability to change its fortunes, but he said it’s time for the Kings to have a serious conversation before their four-game losing streak gets worse. Monk said he expects that conversation to occur before the Kings face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday at Target Center in Minneapolis.
“We’re gonna say something,” Monk said. “I feel like we always say something after every loss, so tomorrow we’ll probably say something when we get to Minnesota.”
The Kings (8-10) have lost four in a row and seven of their last 10 to fall to 12th in the Western Conference, 1 ½ games behind the San Antonio Spurs for the final play-in spot. Monk said the team’s veterans need to speak up, specifically mentioning De’Aaron Fox, DeMar DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis
“I feel like we’ve got a veteran team now with a few young guys, so we know how to turn it around,” Monk said. “Domas is going to say a few things, I’m going to say a few things, Fox will say a few things and DeMar will say a few things. We’ve got to turn it around quick, though.”
Monk came back Monday after missing seven games with a right ankle sprain. He had not played since suffering the injury in a Nov. 10 game against the Phoenix Suns.
Monk had 14 points, three assists and one steal in 26 minutes against Oklahoma City. He went 4 of 12 from the field, 2 of 7 from 3-point range and 4 of 6 at the free-throw line. The Kings have missed the energy, scoring and playmaking ability he brings off the bench.
Monk said it was tough being out while his team struggled.
“It was hard, especially watching some games we start with no energy,” Monk said. “But basketball comes with injuries, so that’s a part of it, but we’ll figure it out.”
This story was originally published November 26, 2024 at 5:00 AM.
