[Game] California Classic 2023, Day 2 (7/5/2023): Kings vs. Heat 7pm Pacific, 10pm Eastern

[The_Jamal]

The difference is that Haliburton had shown he was a starting level PG with the potential to be really, really good in that role. So far Monk has had two good seasons in a reserve role. There's no indication that would be a high level starting SG (especially given his size) and certainly no evidence that he could be a starting PG/lead guard.

And Capt Factorial can correct me if I'm wrong, but because the Kings signed him to a two year deal as a FA it means any team that would trade for him would have to be able to re-sign him next offseason and wouldn't have his Bird rights.

I love Monk and I hope the Kings find a way to keep him long term, but I can't see how another team would trade a starter level big wing who can mesh with the existing Kings team offensively and be a plus defender (ideally with rim protection and outside shooting) for him.

The Kings would be better off if Davion started for a stretch before the AS break and put up huge numbers that made teams believe he'd be a great starting PG. Because they'd have a team option on him for the following season and then full Bird rights to re-sign him after that.

I don't actually think this is true.

Regular season: Per/36

21.8 PPG
6.2 APG
4.3 RPG

Splits:
25.8% USG
14.1% TOV
25.0% AST
.260 FTr
58.7% TS

Playoffs: Per/36
23.4 PPG
4.4 APG
6.7 RPG

Splits:
24.9% USG
10..9% TOV
18.2% AST
.527 FTr (woah)
58.0% TS

Those are just flat out elite offensive numbers from an off-guard. And while we didn't get the extended minute sample in the regular season, he certainly showed in the playoffs that he can somewhat sustain those rates. This was my whole point a lot of the off-season; I think if you took a chance on Monk with 30+ MPG, he's got the potential to blossom into our own Beal/Lavine without trading assets for. The best-friend chemistry with our franchise player is just an obvious added bonus on top of it. They clearly love playing together. And Monk was far and a way the best at getting Domas easy looks in the PnR. He was pretty much the only guy who did it consistently every game.

So great chemistry with the building blocks and the peripheral numbers show a potentially elite hidden offensive talent if given an expanded role. I'm making that bet any day of the week.

 

[funkykingston]

I don't actually think this is true.

Regular season: Per/36

21.8 PPG
6.2 APG
4.3 RPG

Splits:
25.8% USG
14.1% TOV
25.0% AST
.260 FTr
58.7% TS

Playoffs: Per/36
23.4 PPG
4.4 APG
6.7 RPG

Splits:
24.9% USG
10..9% TOV
18.2% AST
.527 FTr (woah)
58.0% TS

Those are just flat out elite offensive numbers from an off-guard. And while we didn't get the extended minute sample in the regular season, he certainly showed in the playoffs that he can somewhat sustain those rates. This was my whole point a lot of the off-season; I think if you took a chance on Monk with 30+ MPG, he's got the potential to blossom into our own Beal/Lavine without trading assets for. The best-friend chemistry with our franchise player is just an obvious added bonus on top of it. They clearly love playing together. And Monk was far and a way the best at getting Domas easy looks in the PnR. He was pretty much the only guy who did it consistently every game.

So great chemistry with the building blocks and the peripheral numbers show a potentially elite hidden offensive talent with an expanded role. I'm making that bet any day of the week.

Fair point. I think "indication" was the wrong word. Maybe "proof" since we're largely extrapolating from his numbers as a reserve to say what he might be as a starter. But I agree with you from the Kings standpoint.

Because if you're the team that already has him under contract, then sure, I think you can try him out as a starter because you can always move him back to the 6th man role if it doesn't work out.

But I think it's a quite a different thing for another team to gamble on trading a significant player for him because you THINK he might thrive as a starter. That said, while Monk didn't start a single game for the Kings, he actually DID start 37 games for the Lakers and not only did his shooting efficiencies increase (both FG% and 3P%) but his rebounding and assists went up slightly on a per minute basis which is super encouraging.

The counter argument is that he got more open looks (and more opportunities for assists etc) by sharing the court with LeBron and AD more, but IMO he's just better under the brighter lights and I think the Kings absolutely should experiment with starting Malik.

But I'm still not convinced that another team would give up a high level starter in a trade for him for a few reasons. Or that the Kings would risk upsetting Fox by doing so. What SacTownDog has described is a high level defender (6'11" or so is I believe what he said) who can guard elite wings and be a plus on offense. We've all hoped for a starting forward next to Domas who can offer some rim protection as well. And this player would need to be a consistent outside shooter to not disrupt the offense.

Outside of dealing Malik for Jonathan Isaac - which (1) the Magic don't need any more guards, especially smallish ones and (2) if they are willing to trade Isaac I'm not sure I want him - I don't know what player fits that description and who a team would be willing to trade for Monk.

But it's the offseason and we're all probably a bit bored until the next Summer League game. I'd love to hear some ideas of which forward/big wing the Kings might trade for with Malik as the main piece going the other way.

 

[The_Jamal]

If you're the team that already has him under contract, then sure, I think you can try him out as a starter because you can always move him back to the 6th man role.

But I think it's a quite a different thing for another team to gamble on trading a significant player for him because you THINK he might thrive as a starter. That said, while Monk didn't start a single game for the Kings, he actually DID start 37 games for the Lakers and not only did his shooting efficiencies increase (both FG% and 3P%) but his rebounding and assists went up slightly on a per minute basis which is super encouraging.

The counter argument is that he got more open looks (and more opportunities for assists etc) by sharing the court with LeBron and AD more, but IMO he's just better under the brighter lights and I think the Kings absolutely should experiment with starting Malik.

But I'm still not convinced that another team would give up a high level starter in a trade for him for a few reasons. Or that the Kings would risk upsetting Fox by doing so. What SacTownDog has described is a high level defender (6'11" or so is I believe what he said) who can guard elite wings and be a plus on offense. We've all hoped for a starting forward next to Domas who can offer some rim protection as well. And this player would need to be a consistent outside shooter to not disrupt the offense.

Outside of dealing Malik for Jonathan Isaac - which (1) the Magic don't need any more guards, especially smallish ones and (2) if they are willing to trade Isaac I'm not sure I want him - I don't know what player fits that description and who a team would be willing to trade for Monk.

But it's the offseason and we're all probably a bit bored until the next Summer League game. I'd love to hear some ideas of which forward/big wing the Kings might trade for with Malik as the main piece going the other way.

Oh I don't want to trade Malik at all. I think he's a core piece and I'm making this argument that we're vastly underutilizing him by keeping him a low 20 MPG role. Huerter and Davion likely become our best trade assets moving forward.

 

[funkykingston]

Oh I don't want to trade Malik at all. I think he's a core piece and I'm making this argument that we're vastly underutilizing him by keeping him a low 20 MPG role. Huerter and Davion likely become our best trade assets moving forward.

Then you and I are on the same page.

I think right now the core players for the Kings are Fox, Sabonis, Murray, and Monk, either in his current role as sort of our Ginobili or possibly as a starter.

I think I like Huerter more than most, but there's only so much cap space and you can't pay everybody.

Barnes' deal ends when it's time to pay Keegan and hopefully he's a max or near max player at that point. Davion won't be a starter as long as Fox is here and healthy so he's definitely another trade piece.

You don't want to miss the playoffs after last season so I don't know that you'll see a major move during the season, but in the off-season anyone except those 4 core guys should be available for the right price/fit.

 

[sactowndog]

With the way that chemistry is working between Fox and Monk, I would actually expect the opposite. I don't think Monk is going anywhere as long as Fox/Monk is one big happy family.

I’m looking at it more from what would another team want to send us a 3&D wing. Given those guys are hard to find and not cheap they are not going to take a Duarte.

 

[sactowndog]

I don't actually think this is true.

Regular season: Per/36

21.8 PPG
6.2 APG
4.3 RPG

Splits:
25.8% USG
14.1% TOV
25.0% AST
.260 FTr
58.7% TS

Playoffs: Per/36
23.4 PPG
4.4 APG
6.7 RPG

Splits:
24.9% USG
10..9% TOV
18.2% AST
.527 FTr (woah)
58.0% TS

Those are just flat out elite offensive numbers from an off-guard. And while we didn't get the extended minute sample in the regular season, he certainly showed in the playoffs that he can somewhat sustain those rates. This was my whole point a lot of the off-season; I think if you took a chance on Monk with 30+ MPG, he's got the potential to blossom into our own Beal/Lavine without trading assets for. The best-friend chemistry with our franchise player is just an obvious added bonus on top of it. They clearly love playing together. And Monk was far and a way the best at getting Domas easy looks in the PnR. He was pretty much the only guy who did it consistently every game.

So great chemistry with the building blocks and the peripheral numbers show a potentially elite hidden offensive talent if given an expanded role. I'm making that bet any day of the week.

well I would add that I think he would be even better as 6.2 assists without being the primary ball handler is pretty good.

and as well I would rather not trade Monk. But to get even a passable 3 and D wing is going to take trading Huerter or Malik and I don’t think Huerter gets it done. Teams will demand Monk or walk. We are not likely getting pass the first round without some impactful wing on defense.

We got a bit lucky with the Warriors that we could put Davion on Curry. With Phoenix as an example Booker shots over Davion as does Edwards with Minnesota. We have to be able to slow them down without completely sacrificing offense.

 

[dude12]

Watching Jahmius Ramsey play for OKC SL team.

 

[Kingster]

yeah think Monk is the most likely to be traded. Teams know when you are out of balance and target your best guy like teams wanted Hali.

Also, you're going to get the most in return for an asset like Monk.

 

[sactowndog]

Fair point. I think "indication" was the wrong word. Maybe "proof" since we're largely extrapolating from his numbers as a reserve to say what he might be as a starter. But I agree with you from the Kings standpoint.

Because if you're the team that already has him under contract, then sure, I think you can try him out as a starter because you can always move him back to the 6th man role if it doesn't work out.

But I think it's a quite a different thing for another team to gamble on trading a significant player for him because you THINK he might thrive as a starter. That said, while Monk didn't start a single game for the Kings, he actually DID start 37 games for the Lakers and not only did his shooting efficiencies increase (both FG% and 3P%) but his rebounding and assists went up slightly on a per minute basis which is super encouraging.

The counter argument is that he got more open looks (and more opportunities for assists etc) by sharing the court with LeBron and AD more, but IMO he's just better under the brighter lights and I think the Kings absolutely should experiment with starting Malik.

But I'm still not convinced that another team would give up a high level starter in a trade for him for a few reasons. Or that the Kings would risk upsetting Fox by doing so. What SacTownDog has described is a high level defender (6'11" or so is I believe what he said) who can guard elite wings and be a plus on offense. We've all hoped for a starting forward next to Domas who can offer some rim protection as well. And this player would need to be a consistent outside shooter to not disrupt the offense.

Outside of dealing Malik for Jonathan Isaac - which (1) the Magic don't need any more guards, especially smallish ones and (2) if they are willing to trade Isaac I'm not sure I want him - I don't know what player fits that description and who a team would be willing to trade for Monk.

But it's the offseason and we're all probably a bit bored until the next Summer League game. I'd love to hear some ideas of which forward/big wing the Kings might trade for with Malik as the main piece going the other way.

6’ 11” plus was wingspan not height….

 

[Kingster]

With the way that chemistry is working between Fox and Monk, I would actually expect the opposite. I don't think Monk is going anywhere as long as Fox/Monk is one big happy family.

It all depends on who you get in exchange for Monk. The reason why it seems unlikely is that we don't know Player X who the Kings might get in return.

 

[Kingster]

6’ 11” plus was wingspan not height….

For me it's height!

 

[sactowndog]

For me it's height!

most guys 6’ 11” don’t have the lateral quickness to play on the perimeter and if they do they certainly aren’t being traded for Monk.

 

[funkykingston]

6’ 11” plus was wingspan not height….

Ah. Got it.

I'd still love to hear your potential targets if Monk was the main (or one of the main) trade pieces going out for the defensive wing you want the team to add.

I wanted Jonathan Isaac years ago, but at this point I don't think I'd give up anything of value if the Magic are willing to trade him because it means they probably know he has lingering issues. If there's a chance he is (or will be) healthy they likely don't trade him because they have to know they'd likely get pennies on the dollar for him. Unless they are in a situation where they have to shed salary, I wouldn't trust any deal for him.

So I'm not sure who else is a possible fit that could be had in trade. I love Vanderbilt, but the playoffs showed that he's near unplayable if he can't make shots or be a positive on offense. PJ Washington? He'll likely sign his QO and be an UFA next season which means a payday.

Ozy mentioned Dominic Barlow (who I also really like) but I don't know that McNair would trade Monk for a guy who isn't ready to contribute now and has shown flashes but has also only appeared in 28 games for a pretty bad Spurs team.

 

[Capt. Factorial]

It all depends on who you get in exchange for Monk. The reason why it seems unlikely is that we don't know Player X who the Kings might get in return.

Yes. But when you're considering the options of:

Happy Fox + Monk
or
Sad Fox + Player X

then Player X has to be REALLY REALLY REALLY GOOD for me to start considering it. There's this non-linearity with Monk where he's just way more valuable to our team than he is to other teams, so it's going to be super hard to get appropriate value back.

 

[midtowner]

Monk is a core piece - probably more so than Huerter. 3rd best playmaker on the team.

 

[Kingster]

Yes. But when you're considering the options of:

Happy Fox + Monk
or
Sad Fox + Player X

then Player X has to be REALLY REALLY REALLY GOOD for me to start considering it. There's this non-linearity with Monk where he's just way more valuable to our team than he is to other teams, so it's going to be super hard to get appropriate value back.

Monk's value to the Kings is partly a function of who can replace him. If the Kings had a Gabe Vincent on their roster who the Lakers happened to get at a very reasonable price, then all of a sudden Monk isn't irreplaceable and there would be much more interest in trading Monk for other pressing needs. All of a sudden it becomes much more believable to trade Monk, despite his ties to Fox. Time will tell if the Kings will develop or get that player in the future, but Monte sure seems to be throwing a lot on the wall to see if anything sticks.

Player X has got to put the Kings in legit contention with Denver. Like most trades it's probably going to hurt some. I'd like to keep Monk AND get that 6'11" or so athletic guy that defend, rebound and hit the open three, but in the end you usually don't get everything you want. The Halliburton trade wasn't popular either. I think Fox could live with it if he thought such a trade could win him a championship.

 

[Kingster]

most guys 6’ 11” don’t have the lateral quickness to play on the perimeter and if they do they certainly aren’t being traded for Monk.

A 6'11" wingspan is precisely what Tyreke Evans had, and getting a Tyreke-like guy on the wing doesn't excite me or put this team over the top. This team needs much more length than that.

 

[gunks]

Would hate to trade Monk. If we're clearing space in the guard rotation I'd hope we ship out Huerter or Davion first (not that I'm really interested in trading anyone at this point - I'm "team run it back").

As far as I'm concerned the core is Fox/Domas/Keegan+Monk as our new BJax.

Electric scorer, can shoot but is just as aggressive taking it inside as anyone on the team, underrated play making, amazing locker room guy, Fox's bestie. Why trade that?

 

[funkykingston]

Monk's value to the Kings is partly a function of who can replace him. If the Kings had a Gabe Vincent on their roster who the Lakers happened to get at a very reasonable price, then all of a sudden Monk isn't irreplaceable and there would be much more interest in trading Monk for other pressing needs. All of a sudden it becomes much more believable to trade Monk, despite his ties to Fox. Time will tell if the Kings will develop or get that player in the future, but Monte sure seems to be throwing a lot on the wall to see if anything sticks.

Player X has got to put the Kings in legit contention with Denver. Like most trades it's probably going to hurt some. I'd like to keep Monk AND get that 6'11" or so athletic guy that defend, rebound and hit the open three, but in the end you usually don't get everything you want. The Halliburton trade wasn't popular either. I think Fox could live with it if he thought such a trade could win him a championship.

Gabe Vincent got nearly 4 more mpg than Monk, but Malik averaged 3.9 more ppg, 1.4 more apg, 0.5 more rpg and shot 44.8%/35.9%/88.9% vs Vincent's 40.2%/33.4%/87.2%. And overall Monk had a PER of 16.6 vs Vincent's 9.0

Meanwhile Vincent is also a year and a half older and will make more money next season.

I know you're saying that IF the Kings could get a guy like Vincent who is maybe 75% the player Monk is that it makes it easier to trade Monk to address other roster issues, but I think this misses the larger issue.

The LAKERS can sign guys like Vincent (or Monk before him) to very reasonable prices every offseason. The Sacramento Kings on the other hand have to count Malik Monk as one of their top FA signings ever, maybe even 2nd ever, behind Vlade if we're not counting re-signing their own free agents. And that's before we even note that Malik signed with the team largely to play with Fox.

IMO the Kings won't easily replace Monk with a free agent signing (and Malik himself is FA next offseason anyway) so unless they draft a guy (Colby Jones maybe) or trade for a guy (I don't see it with Duarte, but who knows) I don't think you easily replace that production, let alone the connection with one of your two cornerstone players.

 

[dude12]

So let me get this straight, some would trade Monk, one of the few self-creators we have for a 3 and D wing with length because we need defense more? I guess Fox and Domas can both play 42 minutes a game.

 

[Spike]

The more likely scenario WRT Monk is that he gets an offer we can't/won't match. Fox is not as sad because Monk leaves via FA for a crap ton of cash. Elsewise, as has been said, Monk's value here in Sac is greater than what his value is anywhere else.

Furthermore, I can't think of anyone we can acquire for about $10 million at the wing position that will outplay what we're getting out of Monk.

 

[Livinthedream]

After losing 6 of their first 9 games, the Kings still managed a 48 win season and 3rd seed.

Had a great post all star break record even after a good number of Western Conference teams made major trades to get better.

Had statistically one of the best offenses of all times.

Fans shouldn't be so anxious to tear that all down just so they can say the Kings are an average defensive team.

Let's not forget, the Kings lost in the playoffs because they missed open shots. Not because of defense.

 

[miltonap]

I doubt Monk would just dip for more money especially if we're rollin.

He'd probably want to stay.

I honestly don't see anyone potentially leaving except for Davion and Huerter

 

[PorchSurfin]

I doubt Monk would just dip for more money especially if we're rollin.

He'd probably want to stay.

I honestly don't see anyone potentially leaving except for Davion and Huerter

Agree with you again! Monk ain't here for the money I don't feel. The money is nice but I think Monk not only loves playing with Fox but he believes in him. I think that whole Kentucky team believes in Fox which is why he cried after losing, Fox felt like he let them down.

I think Fox is an amazing leader and a guy people rally behind, love to play with. I think Haliburton is the same way. Crazy decision Monte had to make there smh...

 

[twslam07]

6’ 11” plus was wingspan not height….

When you’re looking for the ideal PF to put next to Sabonis, you’d prefer them to check off these boxes…

• 7’0”+ wingspan
• 8’10” standing reach
• Athletic
• Elite PF defender
• Versatile defender
• Rim protector
• Solid rebounder
• Great 3PT shooter
• Lob threat
• Similar age or younger than Sabonis

Now that’s one hell of a player and I doubt we’ll find someone who checks off every single one but obviously some of these traits are much more important than others (e.g., I’d much rather have a great 3PT shooter who’s not a lob threat vs. a player who is a lob threat but a poor 3PT shooter).

Looking across the league, I feel like this is the list of players that check off many of those boxes…

1. Evan Mobley
2. Aaron Gordon
3. Anthony Davis
4. Aleksej Pokusevski
5. Bobby Portis
6. Chet Holmgren
7. Jabari Smith Jr.
8. Jaden McDaniels
9. Jalen Johnson
10. Jarace Walker
11. Jaren Jackson Jr.
12. Jarred Vanderbilt
13. Jerami Grant
14. John Collins
15. Jonathan Isaac
16. Keegan Murray
17. Kevin Durant
18. Kyle Anderson
19. Naz Reid
20. Nicolas Batum
21. OG Anunoby
22. Pascal Siakam
23. Patrick Williams
24. PJ Washington
25. Robert Covington
26. Tari Eason
27. Taylor Hendricks
28. Trey Lyles
29. Victor Wembanyama

Finding that elite defender who can space the floor is most important though so my short list from the list above would be…

1. Jaden McDaniels
2. Jaren Jackson Jr.
3. Jonathan Isaac
4. OG Anunoby
5. Tari Eason
6. Taylor Hendricks
7. Victor Wembanyama

Obviously some of these guys are completely unrealistic…

• Wembanyama isn’t being traded for anything at this point
• Grizzlies are still competing and Jackson is a huge part of their success (and is still young). Maybe he becomes available if the whole Morant thing blows up and they’re looking to restart
• The Wolves love McDaniels and he’ll be a RFA next year. Can’t see them giving him up.
• Maybe Tari Eason but the Rockets are high on him and think their forward rotation can work as is.
• Hendricks was just drafted so assuming he’ll be off the table for awhile

That really just leaves Anunoby and Isaac as players who are excellent fits next to Sabonis but are also somewhat available.

The concern with Isaac is obviously health. The guy hasn’t been able to stay on the floor for the past few years.

The concern with Anunoby is how much Masai is asking for in a trade. With VanVleet leaving, maybe the Raptors take another step back this season and it applies more pressure to Masai to blow this thing up and retool around Barnes. Masai also might just be waiting to see if anyone blinks first as the upcoming trade deadline will be the last time he can move him. Perhaps Masai settles on a more reasonable deal at that time.

 

[funkykingston]

When you’re looking for the ideal PF to put next to Sabonis, you’d prefer them to check off these boxes…

• 7’0”+ wingspan
• 8’10” standing reach
• Athletic
• Elite PF defender
• Versatile defender
• Rim protector
• Solid rebounder
• Great 3PT shooter
• Lob threat
• Similar age or younger than Sabonis

Now that’s one hell of a player and I doubt we’ll find someone who checks off every single one but obviously some of these traits are much more important than others (e.g., I’d much rather have a great 3PT shooter who’s not a lob threat vs. a player who is a lob threat but a poor 3PT shooter).

Looking across the league, I feel like this is the list of players that check off many of those boxes…

1. Evan Mobley
2. Aaron Gordon
3. Anthony Davis
4. Aleksej Pokusevski
5. Bobby Portis
6. Chet Holmgren
7. Jabari Smith Jr.
8. Jaden McDaniels
9. Jalen Johnson
10. Jarace Walker
11. Jaren Jackson Jr.
12. Jarred Vanderbilt
13. Jerami Grant
14. John Collins
15. Jonathan Isaac
16. Keegan Murray
17. Kevin Durant
18. Kyle Anderson
19. Naz Reid
20. Nicolas Batum
21. OG Anunoby
22. Pascal Siakam
23. Patrick Williams
24. PJ Washington
25. Robert Covington
26. Tari Eason
27. Taylor Hendricks
28. Trey Lyles
29. Victor Wembanyama

Finding that elite defender who can space the floor is most important though so my short list from the list above would be…

1. Jaden McDaniels
2. Jaren Jackson Jr.
3. Jonathan Isaac
4. OG Anunoby
5. Tari Eason
6. Taylor Hendricks
7. Victor Wembanyama

Obviously some of these guys are completely unrealistic…

• Wembanyama isn’t being traded for anything at this point
• Grizzlies are still competing and Jackson is a huge part of their success (and is still young). Maybe he becomes available if the whole Morant thing blows up and they’re looking to restart
• The Wolves love McDaniels and he’ll be a RFA next year. Can’t see them giving him up.
• Maybe Tari Eason but the Rockets are high on him and think their forward rotation can work as is.
• Hendricks was just drafted so assuming he’ll be off the table for awhile

That really just leaves Anunoby and Isaac as players who are excellent fits next to Sabonis but are also somewhat available.

The concern with Isaac is obviously health. The guy hasn’t been able to stay on the floor for the past few years.

The concern with Anunoby is how much Masai is asking for in a trade. With VanVleet leaving, maybe the Raptors take another step back this season and it applies more pressure to Masai to blow this thing up and retool around Barnes. Masai also might just be waiting to see if anyone blinks first as the upcoming trade deadline will be the last time he can move him. Perhaps Masai settles on a more reasonable deal at that time.

Good post. My issue with Anunoby beyond the high cost is that he's also not a rim protector. Age (and again cost) are issues, but I think Siakam is probably a slightly better fit.

I'm not sure why PJ Washington didn't make your short list. He had a bit of a down year shooting (or maybe he just gets more inefficient on higher volume?) but he still shot nearly 35% from three on almost 6 attempts. But he's also likely (if he hasn't already) to sign his QO and be an UFA next season so I'm not sure he's a realistic target either.

The issue with Isaac is definitely his health. And as I've said before it's a bit of a Catch 22 where if the Magic DON'T want to trade him then I'm interested, and if they DO want to trade him then I think you have to stay away. Essentially, Orlando knows the most about where his health is now and if they're willing to move him for pennies on the dollar, they likely don't think he'll ever regain his previous form.

I was high on Tari Eason before the draft. I really wish the Kings had traded up to get him. I'd have rather seen that use of this year's FRP than moving it to Dallas to unload Richaun's deal.

The type of player I've envisioned between Murray and Sabonis is essentially in the mold of Andrei Kirilenko, Chris Bosh, or mid OKC years Serge Ibaka when he was averaging around 37% from three and blocking around 3 shots a game.

 

[twslam07]

Good post. My issue with Anunoby beyond the high cost is that he's also not a rim protector. Age (and again cost) are issues, but I think Siakam is probably a slightly better fit.

I'm not sure why PJ Washington didn't make your short list. He had a bit of a down year shooting (or maybe he just gets more inefficient on higher volume?) but he still shot nearly 35% from three on almost 6 attempts. But he's also likely (if he hasn't already) to sign his QO and be an UFA next season so I'm not sure he's a realistic target either.

The issue with Isaac is definitely his health. And as I've said before it's a bit of a Catch 22 where if the Magic DON'T want to trade him then I'm interested, and if they DO want to trade him then I think you have to stay away. Essentially, Orlando knows the most about where his health is now and if they're willing to move him for pennies on the dollar, they likely don't think he'll ever regain his previous form.

I was high on Tari Eason before the draft. I really wish the Kings had traded up to get him. I'd have rather seen that use of this year's FRP than moving it to Dallas to unload Richaun's deal.

The type of player I've envisioned between Murray and Sabonis is essentially in the mold of Andrei Kirilenko, Chris Bosh, or mid OKC years Serge Ibaka when he was averaging around 37% from three and blocking around 3 shots a game.

I understand the rim protector angle when it comes to Anunoby but you also have to keep in mind that he’s been next to Siakam and now Barnes for a lot of his career. He’s been in that SF role defensively (and sometimes SG). Filling that PF spot for us we may see that block total go up.

I’m not high on the Siakam fit mainly because of offense. Siakam is not a high volume 3PT shooter but he is a high usage scorer who operates best in the paint and midrange. We already have Fox and Sabonis who operate best in that same area of the floor. Makes me wonder if it would result in a 2 + 2 = 3 sort of result despite Siakam being an extremely talented player.

I left Washington off the short list because I don’t really see him being an elite defender (his shooting is fine). Was just trying to trim it down to all defensive team caliber players (or players who I think could get there) who can really help boost our below average defense to an average level.

 

[Kingster]

Gabe Vincent got nearly 4 more mpg than Monk, but Malik averaged 3.9 more ppg, 1.4 more apg, 0.5 more rpg and shot 44.8%/35.9%/88.9% vs Vincent's 40.2%/33.4%/87.2%. And overall Monk had a PER of 16.6 vs Vincent's 9.0

Meanwhile Vincent is also a year and a half older and will make more money next season.

I know you're saying that IF the Kings could get a guy like Vincent who is maybe 75% the player Monk is that it makes it easier to trade Monk to address other roster issues, but I think this misses the larger issue.

The LAKERS can sign guys like Vincent (or Monk before him) to very reasonable prices every offseason. The Sacramento Kings on the other hand have to count Malik Monk as one of their top FA signings ever, maybe even 2nd ever, behind Vlade if we're not counting re-signing their own free agents. And that's before we even note that Malik signed with the team largely to play with Fox.

IMO the Kings won't easily replace Monk with a free agent signing (and Malik himself is FA next offseason anyway) so unless they draft a guy (Colby Jones maybe) or trade for a guy (I don't see it with Duarte, but who knows) I don't think you easily replace that production, let alone the connection with one of your two cornerstone players.

Regarding your "larger issue," if you used the logic that the Kings are inevitably losers in FA then the Monk signing would never have occurred in the first place because of the defeatist idea that the Kings are just losers in the free agency market. Apparently, you believe that the Monk signing was an anomaly that will never be repeated because the unique bond between Fox and Monk will not be replicated, that is unless Fox has some other incredibly close bond with a player at or above Monk's ability. More proof that the Sacramento inferiority complex continues to persist. For other recent evidence of the Sacramento inferiority complex see the skepticism over whether Sabonis would re-sign shortly after the Halliburton trade. Remember, Sabonis didn't have to re-sign if he didn't want to. I know, but it's "so hard" and "it's not easy." But, but, but... In the meantime, the Kings make the playoffs, Sabonis re-signs, Brown is Coach of the Year, and Brown is hearing from players around the league that the Kings are playing a fun brand of basketball, sharing the ball rather than watching a couple of stars dominate the ball at the expense of everyone else. I know, "but it's hard" and "it's not easy." But, but, but....

Here's what I'm looking at. I'm looking at that incredible attractive FA market known as Milwaukee, the magnet for talent, who in 2020 signed 6'11" Bobby Portis for four years at an average amount of around $12 million/year in FA. I know, I know, the Kings can't compete with Milwaukee. It's hard and it's not easy. I know, Portis moved around a lot - first with the Bulls, then Washington, then the Knicks. So who wants him? Right? If those teams don't want him, why should we? Yeah, it's hard and not easy.

Then there is the trade option. In 2021 the Denver Nuggets trade Gary Harris, J. Hampton and a future 1st for Aaron Gordon from the farm club known as the Orlando Magic. Gordon is 6'8," but he plays like he's 6'11." Gordon's outside shot is somewhat iffy, but Denver saw there was something to work with there. In the two years prior to the trade Harris averaged 9.7 and 10.2 points per game, respectively. Yeah I know: It's hard and it's not easy. But getting the long athletic 4/5 is do-able.

 

[funkykingston]

Regarding your "larger issue," if you used the logic that the Kings are inevitably losers in FA then the Monk signing would never have occurred in the first place because of the defeatist idea that the Kings are just losers in the free agency market. Apparently, you believe that the Monk signing was an anomaly that will never be repeated because the unique bond between Fox and Monk will not be replicated, that is unless Fox has some other incredibly close bond with a player at or above Monk's ability. More proof that the Sacramento inferiority complex continues to persist. For other recent evidence of the Sacramento inferiority complex see the skepticism over whether Sabonis would re-sign shortly after the Halliburton trade. Remember, Sabonis didn't have to re-sign if he didn't want to. I know, but it's "so hard" and "it's not easy." But, but, but... In the meantime, the Kings make the playoffs, Sabonis re-signs, Brown is Coach of the Year, and Brown is hearing from players around the league that the Kings are playing a fun brand of basketball, sharing the ball rather than watching a couple of stars dominate the ball at the expense of everyone else. I know, "but it's hard" and "it's not easy." But, but, but....

Here's what I'm looking at. I'm looking at that incredible attractive FA market known as Milwaukee, the magnet for talent, who in 2020 signed 6'11" Bobby Portis for four years at an average amount of around $12 million/year in FA. I know, I know, the Kings can't compete with Milwaukee. It's hard and it's not easy. I know, Portis moved around a lot - first with the Bulls, then Washington, then the Knicks. So who wants him? Right? If those teams don't want him, why should we? Yeah, it's hard and not easy.

Then there is the trade option. In 2021 the Denver Nuggets trade Gary Harris, J. Hampton and a future 1st for Aaron Gordon from the farm club known as the Orlando Magic. Gordon is 6'8," but he plays like he's 6'11." Gordon's outside shot is somewhat iffy, but Denver saw there was something to work with there. In the two years prior to the trade Harris averaged 9.7 and 10.2 points per game, respectively. Yeah I know: It's hard and it's not easy. But getting the long athletic 4/5 is do-able.

You seem to love putting words in other people's mouths.

You compared a player signing with the Lakers as an example of what the Kings SHOULD be able to do.

Do you think one successful season puts Sacramento on the same level of a FA destination as LA or Miami?

The Suns just signed Eric Gordon for 2 years and $6.5M. Do you think if McNair had offered him that deal first he'd be in Sacramento instead of Phoenix?

MY point (and not the point you seem to think I was making) was that to trade Monk, who:

1. is objectively the best FA the Kings have signed since Vlade,
2. Is best friends with one of the team's cornerstones (and came to the Kings in large part because of that)
3. was one of the team's four best players and a big part of snapping the playoff drought

because you're certain the Kings could sign someone nearly as good in free agency seems very short sighted and unrealistic to me.

Monk is a better player than anyone on this team not named De'Aaron, Keegan, or Domas but you'd trade him for Bobby Porter? And then sign who with the MLE next off-season to replace him?

Or if not Porter, than who? Because I have yet to see a realistic proposal where the Kings trade Monk and get better.

So who exactly would you trade Monk for? How would you replace his production THIS season, and who would you sign next off-season that is nearly as good or better?

I know, attaching actual names is hard and not easy.

 

[Kingster]

You seem to love putting words in other people's mouths.

You compared a player signing with the Lakers as an example of what the Kings SHOULD be able to do.

Do you think one successful season puts Sacramento on the same level of a FA destination as LA or Miami?

The Suns just signed Eric Gordon for 2 years and $6.5M. Do you think if McNair had offered him that deal first he'd be in Sacramento instead of Phoenix?

MY point (and not the point you seem to think I was making) was that to trade Monk, who:

1. is objectively the best FA the Kings have signed since Vlade,
2. Is best friends with one of the team's cornerstones (and came to the Kings in large part because of that)
3. was one of the team's four best players and a big part of snapping the playoff drought

because you're certain the Kings could sign someone nearly as good in free agency seems very short sighted and unrealistic to me.

Monk is a better player than anyone on this team not named De'Aaron, Keegan, or Domas but you'd trade him for Bobby Porter? And then sign who with the MLE next off-season to replace him?

Or if not Porter, than who? Because I have yet to see a realistic proposal where the Kings trade Monk and get better.

So who exactly would you trade Monk for? How would you replace his production THIS season, and who would you sign next off-season that is nearly as good or better?

I know, attaching actual names is hard and not easy.

Of course the Kings signing a player of Vincent's caliber is do-able. Same with Gordon. Whether they "should" have signed him is debatable. The point which you fail to see is that any player that the Kings would obtain in FA or trade that approximates Monk makes the "we can't live without Monk" idea go out the window, thereby making it more palatable to trade Monk, hopefully a long athletic 4/5. THAT is the point. Do you get it now? Monk is replaceable. Monk's points can come from elsewhere. Now do you understand? The "we can't live without Monk" thing because "it's so hard" and "it's not easy" or we can't compete in FA is absurd.

I wouldn't trade Monk for Bobby Porter, but I would trade him for Bobby Portis. 6'4" SGs are much easier to find than 6'11 guys who can rebound, play D and shoot outside. I'd also trade him for Aaron Gordon is the opportunity arose. No doubt there are others out there also. Yeah, but it's hard and it's not easy. I know, I know.