Why the Sacramento Kings Should Pursue Monta Ellis
Apr 1, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Monta Ellis (11) shoots over Charlotte Bobcats guard Ben Gordon (8) during the third quarter at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Sacramento Kings fans have a lot to cheer about with the news that their team will be staying in Sacramento. However, should they continue their excitement with trade rumors about Monta Ellis potentially heading to Sacramento?
The answer is yes. There are a lot of potential upsides with Ellis joining the Sacramento squad.
It is good to note that this trade will only be likely if the Kings decide to part ways with Tyreke Evans (restricted free agent this year).
Evans showed a lot of greatness throughout his career with the Kings, but his skill set does not fit the Kings offensive scheme at the moment. Evans has played point guard, shooting guard and small forward for the Kings. Though most of his success came from the point guard position, he doesn’t play that position because Isaiah Thomas only fits the point guard role. Evans struggles at shooting guard and has openly expressed his dislike playing the small forward position. I admire Evans and all he has done for the Kings, but he needs to go to a team that will better accommodate all his skills.
Ellis, on the other hand, would be a great fit for the Kings. If the Kings pursue Ellis, the team will acquire a good shooting guard. Ellis has a great mid-range game, but can also create his own shot or drive to the basket. There have also been times in the season where the Kings didn’t have that go-to-guy to make buckets down the stretch. Ellis can be that guy. He has proven that he is capable of being clutch at the end of games throughout his career and he can bring that winning mentality to the Kings.
Another possibility with acquiring Ellis is that the Kings can use his versatility to play behind Marcus Thornton. Thornton played great this season and has definitely proven he is an worth to the organization. If Ellis is willing to take that path, then he has the potential of winning the 6th Man of The Year award with all his skills. Ellis coming off the bench is an unlikely event, but that is an option the Kings might use Ellis for.
The biggest reason why many are hesitant and doubtful about this potential trade is his attitude. Yes, Ellis has a bad boy reputation and bringing that vibe to an already struggling team can make matters worst; but fortunately for Ellis (and the Kings), the organization might be pursing a new coach this off-season.
Ellis will be the best player he can be with the right team and coach. If the Kings organization can finally get a good coach that will hold his ground with all the adversities the Kings roster may have, than I see that coach directing Ellis to become an even better basketball player
This trade rumor might initially leave you scratching your head, but if you really look at how Ellis can fit the Kings offense (and not assess him as an individual), you will see that Ellis is a great choice for the Kings. If Evans decides to leave, then there is no better option than picking up Ellis.