Changes are expected to be made by the Lakers this offseason after a terrible campaign. There’s not much the Purple and Gold can take from the 2021-22 NBA season, in which they missed the playoffs.
Even so, there were a few bright spots throughout the year. One of them was Malik Monk, who delivered solid performances — unlike many of his teammates. But now he is a free agent.
However, a return to LA wouldn’t be a bad idea considering how he performed. Having averaged 13.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, it would make sense if the Lakers bring him back. On top of that, money will not be a stumbling block.
Money won’t be a problem for Malik Monk to go back to the Lakers
“They might not be able to pay me as much as I want,” Monk said, via Jovan Buha of The Athletic. “But I could be here and be way more comfortable as a Laker than going to any other team and they’re paying me $5 million more. So it’s just me trying to figure out what team would really want me.“
However, Monk made clear that he will decide what he considers the best for his future. While he would be glad to suit up for the Lakers again, he is also open to all options.
“I definitely would still want to evaluate things,” Monk added. “You never know what happens. Some other team could come in and hopefully tell me the same thing and maybe I get a little bit more minutes on that team.
“So it’s just actually me being presented and being able to go out there and do what I do is a priority. That’s the biggest priority: A team that’s just going to let me come in and be myself.”
