As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Sacramento Kings remain at the center of trade rumors. Despite expectations of a potential rebuild, the franchise has opted to retain its core trio of Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine. However, one key player continues to be the subject of intense speculation: Malik Monk.
Coming off the best season of his career, Monk has emerged as a coveted trade asset, and the latest buzz suggests the Los Angeles Lakers are aggressively pursuing him in a potential $66 million blockbuster deal.
The Proposed Trade: Monk to LA
According to a recent mock trade by SB Nation’s Jacob Rude, the Lakers would acquire Monk in exchange for Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and a lottery-protected 2031 first-round pick.
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Why the Lakers Want Monk:
The Lakers are in desperate need of explosive scoring off the bench, and Monk—who averaged 15.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game last season on 44.3% shooting from three—fits perfectly alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor would provide LA with much-needed firepower. -
Why the Kings Might Consider It:
While Monk has been a key contributor, Sacramento is reportedly targeting Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga in a separate deal. Moving Monk could free up assets to facilitate that trade. Additionally, Vincent (a solid backup guard) and Kleber (a versatile stretch big) would address depth issues.
Why This Deal Could Fall Apart
Despite the potential fit, there are major hurdles:
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Monk’s Value is Rising – Coming off a career year, the Kings may demand more than just a protected first-rounder and two role players.
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Vincent & Kleber’s Health Concerns – Both players struggled with injuries last season, making them risky acquisitions.
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Lakers’ Limited Draft Capital – A lottery-protected 2031 pick may not be enticing enough for Sacramento, especially if other teams offer better packages.
Final Verdict: Will It Happen?
While the Lakers are clearly interested, the Kings are unlikely to pull the trigger unless LA sweetens the deal—possibly by including a second first-round pick or a young prospect like Jalen Hood-Schifino.
For now, Monk remains a King, but as the offseason progresses, this $66 million blockbuster trade could gain serious traction. If it happens, it would send shockwaves through the Western Conference playoff race.
Stay tuned—this could be the NBA’s next major offseason bombshell. 🚀