Charlotte Hornets guard Malik Monk is preparing for a possible increase in his playing time given that his team has a thinner backcourt rotation in the upcoming 2019-2020 season.
Per Sam Perley of nba.com, Monk shared his objective for the offseason. The 11th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft noted that his workout is catered to how the team is arranged at present. Given that they're a lot younger, Monk believes that his opportunity will arise this year.
“[I’m] putting on a lot of muscle, a lot of strength and just getting a lot of shots up. It’s gone pretty well,” stated Monk, whose listed weight was an even 200 pounds last season. “We’ve got a way different team. There’s a lot more opportunities for a lot of young guys. My mindset is a little different, but it’s mostly the same because I just want to get on the court. If I get on the court, I know I can do what I’ve been doing this summer.”
Over the summer, the Hornets lost backcourt players Kemba Walker, Jeremy Lamb, and Tony Parker. They did gain Terry Rozier who's expected to become an intrinsic part of their system moving forward.
The rest of the backcourt — Dwayne Bacon, Devonte’ Graham, and rookie Cody Martin — may have to exert a little more effort if they want to be a regular part of the rotation. Monk, too, who averaged 8.9 points, 1.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists across 17.2 minutes last year, may have his work cut out for him. Not much is expected from the Hornets next year. But if we're to trust Monk's words, then the team will do just fine.
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