Speaking to reporters before Wednesday’s game, Hornets coach James Borrego pledged his support for shooting guard Malik Monk, who has been suspended indefinitely for a violation of the NBA’s anti-drug program, relays Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer.
Borrego said he hasn’t talked with Monk since the suspension was announced this morning.
“All of us face different things in life; it’s how you respond,” Borrego said. “It’s my belief, knowing Malik, that he’ll respond the right way. (The suspension) does put us in a bind. But in the end, this could be a very positive story. I look forward to talking to him.”
Bonnell points out that Monk has turned in some of the best performances of his career recently, averaging 17.8 points over the past 11 games while shooting 47 percent from the field and 38 percent from beyond the arc. Tuesday marked the first start of his three-season career.
While Monk is unavailable, Bonnell expects more playing time for rookies Cody Martin and Caleb Martin and possibly an early return from the G League for Dwayne Bacon.
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