Malik Monk
Despite coming off the bench, Malik Monk is one of the Kings’ most important players. He is the team’s third-leading scorer and playmaker and leads all Kings in blocks per game.
Averaging 15.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, he is on his way to his best season yet, especially as a playmaker. He has truly blossomed in Sacramento and might even win Sixth Man of the Year, as he is leading the league in 20-point games off the bench.
Monk has been by far the most productive and consistent bench player for the Kings, playing his role well, and often finishing games. There have been some quiet games, but overall, he is contributing to winning basketball.
Grade: B
Trey Lyles
Other than Malik Monk, Trey Lyles is the Kings’ most important reserve, and they miss him sorely whenever he is out. So far, he has only played 39 games but he has played well pretty much whenever he was available.
Especially his three-point shooting has been great, as he is shooting 40.5 percent on a career-high 4.1 attempts per game. Lyles usually does a lot of good things when he’s on the court and has been crucial to the Kings’ bench, especially because he gives Mike Brown the option to go small.
Grade: B
JaVale McGee
JaVale McGee was by far the biggest name the Kings signed over the summer. They had high expectations for him, but it didn’t work out all that well. Third-string center Alex Len continuously outplays him and steals the backup big minutes.
McGee had some good moments, especially in the two-man game with Malik Monk, but overall, it has been sort of underwhelming thus far.
Grade: C-