10/01/2024, 10:05 PM

Entering camp as starting SG

Ellis saw an uptick in minutes and production during his second year with the club, during which he averaged 5.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 0.9 steals across 17.2 minutes per game in 57 appearances (23 starts). The 24-year-old missed significant time due to an ankle injury and carved out an inconsistent role in his return. However, as the season progressed the guard became a mainstay in the starting five. Malik Monk seems to be content with a role as the Kings' sixth man, meaning Ellis will have an opportunity to prove he is worth the starting role -- at least until Huerter returns.

10/01/2024, 9:56 PM

Content with Sixth Man role

Fresh off a second-place finish for the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year Award, Monk inked a four-year, $78 million deal with the Kings this offseason. Kevin Huerter (shoulder) isn't cleared for 5-on-5 work yet, so Keon Ellis is operating as the starting shooting guard next to De'Aaron Fox. Monk is certainly talented enough to start for the Kings even when they're at full strength, but his impact off the bench is undeniable. Playing with the reserves also allows Monk to have the ball in his hands more, increasing his fantasy value.

10/01/2024, 12:13 AM

Ramping up ahead of season

Huerter is six months out from suffering a dislocation and labral tear to his left shoulder. The 26-year-old said Monday that he is not yet cleared for contact, but he feels good and could be cleared for 5-on-5 action before the beginning of the regular season. Huerter appeared in 64 regular-season outings last season, during which he averaged 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists across 24.4 minutes per game.