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Kings Pause Malik Monk Trade Talks, Keep Pursuit of Russell Westbrook Alive

Sacramento now favors creating space for Westbrook without sacrificing Monk.

Overview

  • Marc Stein reports the Kings are not actively engaged in discussions to trade Malik Monk after exploring scenarios earlier this offseason.
  • The team remains interested in signing free agent Russell Westbrook and has examined ways to open a backcourt role for him that do not involve moving Monk.
  • Sacramento’s guard rotation grew crowded after adding Dennis Schröder via sign-and-trade and acquiring Zach LaVine, with Keon Ellis and rookie Devin Carter also in the mix.
  • Monk produced a career-high 17.2 points per game in 2024-25 and is on a four-year, $78 million contract with multiple seasons left, factors that temper trade flexibility.
  • Westbrook, 36, is still unsigned after averaging 13.3 points and 6.1 assists with Denver last season, and league coverage continues to identify the Kings as a realistic landing spot.