The Sacramento Kings have encountered significant challenges early in the 2024-25 season, with a disappointing record of five losses in their last six games, bringing them to a total of 9-11. This has positioned them outside of the playoff contention zone, signaling a clear need for a strategic shift.
After persistent demands for change from fans over the past two seasons, head coach Mike Brown and his team have decided to promote Malik Monk to the starting lineup, a move many have been eagerly anticipating.
Having been the runner-up for the NBA Sixth Man of the Year previously, Monk has participated in 170 regular and postseason games for the Kings, always as a substitute. His consistent performance off the bench has defined his role until now, but with the team in dire need of a turnaround, he’s been given his first opportunity to start.
This season, Monk is averaging 15.1 points per game and has been one of the few steady performers in a struggling squad. His inclusion in the starting lineup alongside De’Aaron Fox, DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis is seen as a strategic, low-risk, high-reward decision by the coaching staff.
The decision has been met with great enthusiasm from Kings fans, many of whom have taken to social media to express their approval.
Via BTA New Era: “This the lineup we should have been using from jump.”
This the lineup we should have been using from jump.
— BTA New Era (@Swipa_1k) December 2, 2024
Via jukeboxx: “About time Monk starts!!”
About time Monk starts!!
— jukeboxx (@joshuamcfadden2) December 2, 2024
Via QuiQui: “Am I dreaming?? My boy Malik finally starting??”
Am I dreaming?? My boy Malik finally starting??
— QuiQui ® (@DancingChef94) December 2, 2024
Monk also received a standing ovation when he was announced as a starter for the Kings for the first time.
Malik Monk’s ovation for his first start as a member of the Sacramento Kings. pic.twitter.com/ss70AXyUYB
— Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) December 2, 2024
In Monk’s first game as a starter, the Kings scored an impressive 42 points in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs, the highest they’ve managed all season. With the team’s defense faltering, Monk’s inclusion in the starting lineup is a pragmatic and much-needed change.
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