The Sacramento Kings have made guard Malik Monk available for trade as they approach the February 5 deadline, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. Monk, once a reliable sixth man, has seen his role diminish significantly this season amid roster changes and the team's poor start. With the Kings at 7-22 and last in the Western Conference, they appear poised for a youth movement.
The Sacramento Kings' decision to shop Malik Monk highlights their struggles in the 2025-26 season. Reported by Chris Haynes on December 23, 2025, the move comes as Monk has fallen out of head coach Doug Christie's regular rotation. Last season, Monk set career highs, averaging 17.2 points per game over 31-plus minutes in 65 appearances. This year, through 24 games, his minutes have dropped to about 23, with scoring falling to 12.5 points on 10.3 shot attempts.
Several offseason additions have crowded the backcourt. The arrivals of Russell Westbrook and Dennis Schroder, each playing around 29 minutes nightly, along with Zach LaVine's 32 minutes, have limited opportunities. Fourth-year guard Keon Ellis has emerged as the preferred option, further sidelining the nine-year veteran. Christie, his staff, and the front office have signaled that Monk is not part of their future plans.
The Kings' 7-22 record places them third-worst in the NBA, fueling rumors of broader roster upheaval. Prior whispers suggested potential moves for veterans like Westbrook, LaVine, and DeMar DeRozan due to reported disconnects with the coaching staff. Broader reports indicate Sacramento is one of the league's top sellers, with nearly the entire roster available except for Keegan Murray. Monk's availability underscores this shift, though interest in the dynamic scorer—who remains one of the league's top sixth men—will depend on his reduced production.
As the trade deadline nears, the Kings could accelerate a rebuild, potentially packaging Monk in deals to acquire younger assets or draft capital.
