感谢詹姆斯！从落选到替补霸主，他的逆袭之路

“Without his (James) recommendation, I might have disappeared from the NBA..." - Malik Monk

Though Monk only worked with James for one season, his gratitude towards the big brother figure has remained ingrained, especially this season. As he showcased a career-best performance, leading the top of the Sixth Man of the Year list, garnering attention and praise from all corners, Monk attributes his success not only to the Kings' system but also to LeBron James.

Gratitude flows like a river when kindness is reciprocated, and what James brought to Monk wasn't just a job. Monk's background wasn't humble; he was the leading scorer for the University of Kentucky and was drafted 11th overall by the Hornets in 2017. However, in the NBA, Monk found himself underutilized and undervalued by the Charlotte Hornets. He averaged less than 20 minutes per game, hitting the lowest among his lottery pick peers. It wasn't until his third year that he got a chance to start, but even then, his playing time fluctuated erratically. The Hornets' utilization of him was puzzling; sometimes, he would only play for a few minutes for consecutive months, then suddenly get a 20-minute game. The lack of consistent playing time led to Monk's inconsistent performance.

Additionally, Monk's personality didn't quite fit in. He often made immature decisions, such as rushing onto the court excitedly during a game against the Pistons when Lamb hit a buzzer-beater with 0.3 seconds left, resulting in a technical foul. This incident led to Jordan slapping Monk on the back of the head in frustration. Furthermore, Monk preferred solitary training sessions during the offseason rather than practicing with teammates, leading to a lack of effective communication and bonding. Adding to the woes was a doping incident in February 2021, which marked the end of Monk's tenure with the Hornets.

What surprised Monk was not only the Hornets' dismissal but also the disregard from the other 29 teams. Despite his decent performance in the 2020-2021 season with an average of 11.7 points per game and a three-point shooting percentage of 40.1%, Monk received no inquiries. "Although I expected some calls after leaving the Hornets considering my performance, it was disheartening to receive none," Monk expressed.

It wasn't until one day in August that Pelinka, acting upon James' recommendation, called Monk. "I've been keeping an eye on him. I wanted to trade for him midway through last season, but there wasn't a suitable opportunity," Pelinka disclosed. Despite being offered a minimum salary, Monk promptly accepted.

What followed is now well-known; Monk found his rhythm with the Lakers, excelling in scoring, rebounding, assists, and shooting percentages. Particularly in the playoffs against the Warriors, where he averaged 19 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, impressing not only Los Angeles fans but also securing a 2-year $19.41 million contract.

Although reluctant to leave Los Angeles, both James and the Lakers understood that for the 26-year-old Monk, he needed a bigger stage to showcase his talents. The Kings, with Monk's former Kentucky teammate De'Aaron Fox as their core, provided the perfect destination. This season, as Monk became more familiar with the Kings' system, he delivered a career-best performance. As of now, he averages 15.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game with shooting percentages of 44.3% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc.

He has become the second player since Lou Williams in the 21st century to average at least 15 points and 5 assists off the bench. Monk leads all reserves with a total of 1110 points and 370 assists this season. Additionally, his average of 3.5 points in crucial moments ranks him fifth in the league. After the All-Star break, Monk has scored 32 points in clutch moments, second only to DeMar DeRozan. Presently, Monk bears resemblance to a young Manu Ginobili, capable of scoring, organizing plays, and rising to the occasion without hesitation.

This summer, Monk won't face the same radio silence he encountered three years ago. According to regulations, the Kings can offer him a 4-year $77.9 million contract extension, but it's their limit, not Monk's. As the current premier sixth man, Monk fully deserves a contract exceeding $80 million for four years. It all comes down to Monk's decision in the end.