Sacramento Kings Seek Revenge Against Pelicans: Malik Monk’s Motivation and Redemption

The Sacramento Kings are heading into a highly anticipated matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday night at the Smoothie King Center, with a strong sense of revenge on their minds. After enduring a frustrating 0-6 record against New Orleans during the 2023-24 NBA season, including a devastating loss in the Play-In Tournament that ended their playoff hopes, the Kings are determined to turn the tide.

Malik Monk’s Motivation for Revenge

Malik Monk, who has been a key player for the Kings this season, is especially motivated for this game. Monk, 26, recently earned a spot in Sacramento’s starting lineup and has been playing some of his best basketball of late. After missing the Kings’ Play-In loss to the Pelicans due to an ankle injury, Monk is eager to make up for lost time.

When asked about the matchup with New Orleans, Monk didn’t mince words. “Hell yeah,” he said, eager to exact revenge on the Pelicans. “Every time we play them. Hell yeah. Every single time.”

Monk’s motivation runs deep, not just for the chance at redemption, but also for the personal challenge of facing a team that has gotten the best of Sacramento in recent matchups. In his three years with the Kings, Monk has been effective against the Pelicans. Over seven career games against New Orleans, he has averaged 12.7 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 rebounds. With the extra edge of his past injury, Monk is fired up to step on the court and help the Kings come out on top.

Breaking Through New Orleans’ Defense

Monk is fully aware of what went wrong in the previous season when Sacramento faced New Orleans. The Pelicans’ defense proved too much for the Kings, especially in how they dictated Sacramento’s style of play.

“Their defensive schemes, I feel like we just played into their roles, into what they wanted us to do,” Monk explained. “We played one-on-one instead of kicking the ball out how we normally do. So, we just fed into their game plans — it won’t happen again.”

This time, Monk and the Kings are looking to stick to their offensive game plan, relying on ball movement and smart team play to break through New Orleans’ defense. Monk’s determination to correct past mistakes could prove pivotal in Sacramento’s quest for revenge.

DeMar DeRozan’s Approach to the Matchup

While Monk’s fire for revenge is evident, his teammate DeMar DeRozan takes a more level-headed approach. DeRozan, who wasn’t part of the Kings’ tough losses to the Pelicans last season, is treating the game as just another important opportunity to continue building on their season.

“Nah, not necessarily,” DeRozan said when asked about the significance of the Pelicans’ previous dominance over Sacramento. “Where we’re at now, we’re just trying to take one game at a time.”

For DeRozan, the focus is on the present moment—continuing to play solid basketball and earning the win, rather than dwelling on the past. While Monk brings the emotional intensity, DeRozan’s calm demeanor provides a steadying presence for the team.

Sacramento’s Current Position: Ready to Compete

Sacramento enters Thursday’s game against New Orleans in a strong position, despite the history with the Pelicans. The Kings have been playing better basketball this season, especially with Monk playing a larger role and the team finding chemistry under head coach Mike Brown. With their eyes firmly on the playoffs, the Kings know that each game counts, and Thursday’s contest is an opportunity to not only get a win but to finally break the cycle of disappointment against the Pelicans.

While Monk’s desire for revenge is clear, the entire Kings team understands the importance of staying focused and playing as a unit. With a healthy lineup and a renewed sense of purpose, Sacramento is ready to face New Orleans head-on and end their losing streak against the Pelicans.

Conclusion: A Chance for Redemption

For Malik Monk and the Sacramento Kings, Thursday night’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans is more than just another regular season matchup—it’s a chance for redemption. Monk’s passion for revenge, combined with the team’s determination to play better basketball, could be the recipe for success. The Kings have learned from their past mistakes and are eager to right the wrongs of last season.

Will they finally overcome the Pelicans’ dominance, or will New Orleans continue its reign over Sacramento? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Kings are not backing down.