Malik Monk Benched in Kings' OT Loss; Coach Cites Guard Logjam

Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk received his first DNP-CD (Did Not Play, Coach's Decision) of his Kings tenure in Thursday's overtime loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Coach Doug Christie explained the decision was defensive, citing a "guard logjam" that saw Keon Ellis play a season-high 32 minutes (10 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 6 steals). Despite trade rumors, the benching was not trade-related, with Christie stating "Nothing is permanent" as the 6-21 Kings search for solutions.