Charlotte Hornets: Summer League Stock Report

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CHARLOTTE, NC – NOVEMBER 01: Malik Monk #1 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts after making a basket against the Milwaukee Bucks during their game at Spectrum Center on November 1, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Stock Up: Malik Monk

It was only one game but that one game had built enough excitement for Malik Monk heading into the 2018 season. In the opening game of the Summer League, Monk scored 23 points, including going 4 of 6 from behind the three-point arc.

Unfortunately, Monk didn’t get a chance to follow up his impressive opening performance after he suffered a thumb injury. The initial prognosis was a broken thumb but additional testing confirmed it wasn’t as serious.

The 11th overall pick from last year’s draft showed in the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder why he was taken as high as he was and that is because he can score points in bunches. However, during his rookie season he didn’t get consistent playing time until late and over the final five games of the season he averaged over 20 points a game.

Next: Willy Hernangomez shines in Summer League

There is no question that an improved Monk this season will be a tremendous help to rookie head coach James Borrego as he tries to lead this team back to the playoffs.

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