Sacramento Kings Reportedly Considering Trading Malik Monk to Free Up Roster Space

The Sacramento Kings are reportedly trying to trade Malik Monk to open a roster spot for Russell Westbrook, a former NBA MVP, according to Grant Afseth from the Dallas Hoops Journal. The Kings are said to be working hard on this trade, but are struggling to find a partner due to Monk’s high salary.

According to rumors, the Sacramento Kings are trying to sign Westbrook as their sixth man behind Dennis Schroder, who they recently added to the roster. However, despite the Kings’ interest, two months have passed in Westbrook’s free agency, and he remains unsigned.

In order to clear the roster for Westbrook, the Kings are reportedly planning to get rid of Malik Monk, who they’ve unsuccessfully tried to include in previous negotiations. Despite difficulty trading him due to his salary, the Kings are reportedly willing to offer a contract to Westbrook if they can reduce or remove Monk’s salary.

Monk currently has a trade value of 17.93 and ranks 100th overall and 23rd among shooting guards. While his on-field value is high, his salary and contract stipulations make him a challenging trade proposition. He has two remaining guaranteed years on his contract and a $21.5 million player option for the 2027-2028 season.