Skip to content

Report: Several teams showing interest in Monta Ellis

Jerome Miron / Reuters

There is no shortage of interest in shooting guard Monta Ellis.

After opting out with the Dallas Mavericks last week, several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, Indiana Pacers, and Atlanta Hawks, have inquired about Ellis, according to multiple reports.

Ellis profiles as a slash-and-kick guard who can attack the defense and create offense for himself and others. His jump shot comes and goes and he's a high-usage player, but he brings a valued skill-set to teams short on playmaking.

That description applies to the Pacers, who may be looking to reorient their attack around their backcourt with David West leaving and Roy Hibbert likely to follow. Adding Ellis would make for a formidable wing rotation with George Hill and Paul George on the flanks.

The Kings probably like Ellis for his ball-handling as well. They're also interested in Rajon Rondo, which highlights their desire for playmaking (and disregard for accurate 3-point shooting).

For Miami, Ellis would serve as a plan B in the event that Dwyane Wade bolts in free agency. Ellis isn't nearly as savvy as Wade, but he's been remarkably healthy (playing in 244 of 246 regular-season games over the past two years) and could theoretically fill Wade's role at a lower cost.

Finally, the Hawks could use Ellis's ability to attack the defense. He's basically the antithesis of their team-first, pass-heavy attack, but brings a modicum of playmaking that is at times lacking in Atlanta's offense.

Ellis averaged 18.9 points, 4.1 assists, and 1.9 steals in 33.7 minutes per game in Dallas last season.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox