Even though the Los Angeles Lakers just finished their most disappointing and disastrous season ever, they did have a few bright spots.
Perhaps the brightest was guard Malik Monk, who was signed for about $1.8 million last summer.
He may have been a Sacks SFO-type of bargain, but the value he brought to the Purple and Gold was more akin to Saks Fifth Avenue.
Monk endeared himself to Lakers fans this season with his explosive offensive game, and the former lottery pick seemed to be turning into the best version of himself throughout the season.
He could command much more money this offseason as a free agent, which may put him beyond L.A.’s price range.
But Monk said during his exit interview that he would like to stay with the Lakers.
“Rob (Pelinka) and Frank (Vogel) were the first people to call me as soon as free agency hit,” Monk said, “and they told me this exact picture that happened this year for how they see me playing and it worked out perfect with that aspect, so I just thank those guys for that.
“I love being here, man. I love playing in this atmosphere and of course would love to come back and not do this again.”
When Monk said “not do this again,” it seemed he was referring to losing as many games as the Lakers did after being expected to contend for the NBA championship.
