Malik Monk

Still reeling, and hoping to regain their composure after watching the Sacramento Kings complete a one-of-a-kind stretch of 15 straight scoring possessions, the Houston Rockets were likely left to wonder when such an offensive downpour would conclude. In perfect irony, Malik Monk — no longer in his bench-sparking, Sixth of the Year runner-up role — confirmed that, just like his elevated spot in Sacramento’s rotation, excellence was only just getting started. Accurate in his every move on December 3, 2024, Monk tests his touch in desperation, breaking free for an end-of-quarter catch-and-shoot heave that sinks through, giving Sacramento both momentum, and a 42-point period. It proved to be that kind of can't-miss night for Monk, as he registered 17 points (on 5-of-10 shooting), two rebounds, 12 assists (a career-best, alongside zero turnovers), one steal, and four 3-pointers against the NBA’s then-second-ranked defense. Monk’s dynamic contribution went rewarded through victory, momentum Sacramento would use to kickstart a winning streak just three days thereafter.