Magic Johnson’s presence keeping Lakers on their toes

Malik Monk would like to stay with the Sacramento Kings. The Sacramento Kings would like to retain Malik Monk. Unfortunately, the Kings may have to fend off some suitors who can make Monk larger offers in free agency.

Sacramento is limited to re-signing Monk using his Early Bird rights, as they are expected to be an over-the-cap team this summer. That means the Kings can offer Monk a contract that caps out at nearly $78 million over four seasons.

Given his skills as a shooter, scorer and playmaker, and Monk’s ability to perform at a high level off the bench, the veteran guard is one of the better free agents this summer. Teams that project to have cap space could give Monk an offer that beats what Sacramento can offer.

But Monk said in a perfect world that he’d “definitely” return to the Kings. Monk emphasized that he knows he can always make more money, but he’ll be prioritizing fit this summer. Monk added, “I think it’s going to play out the right way.”

Jaden Ivey has been diagnosed with a broken fibula in his left leg and will miss at least the remainder of the regular season. Ivey exited Wednesday’s game on a stretch after sustaining the injury when Cole Anthony slipped and fell into Ivey’s planted leg while going for the ball. Ivey was in obvious distress as he grabbed for his shin, and Detroit’s medical staff quickly attended to him.

Ivey is averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.0 assists for the Detroit Pistons in his third NBA season.

Ivey will be eligible for a contract extension in the 2025 offseason and will otherwise become a restricted free agent in 2026.