Overview

• Marc Stein reports the Kings are not actively engaged in trade discussions involving Malik Monk after earlier offseason exploration.
• Sacramento has maintained interest in free agent Russell Westbrook, who remains unsigned after averaging 13.3 points and 6.1 assists with Denver last season.
• The team is evaluating ways to create a backcourt opening for Westbrook without dealing Monk, reflecting a shift from earlier chatter about moving a guard.
• A crowded guard group followed summer additions such as Dennis Schröder and Zach LaVine, complicating immediate minutes for another veteran ballhandler.
• Monk has three seasons left on a four-year, $78 million contract after posting a career-best 17.2 points per game with decreased shooting efficiency in 2024-25, while Westbrook’s market is described as thin as training camp nears.