Malik Monk Cleared for Aug. 1st, Challenges Michael Jordan

Before we really dive into football this morning, Malik Monk had some interesting answers for the media yesterday. Monk was briefly back in Kentucky this weekend for an autograph session near Louisville. 

Obviously in good spirits, Monk confirmed that he’ll be cleared for basketball activity on August 1st. As we saw in this morning’s wake up post, he didn’t even watch the Summer League due to the fact he couldn’t play.

“If I’m not playing, I can’t watch,” Monk said. “I was mad the whole time. So, yeah, I was super mad.”

The Hornets’ organization made sure Monk wasn’t back on the court too soon. These days, the slightest ankle injury could turn into a season-long aggravation if it hasn’t been allowed enough time to heal. For Malik, he’s stayed off of it for almost two months, so he’s eager to get back on the court.

As Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reported, the Hornets wanted to experiment with Malik playing point guard during the Summer League. Unfortunately, that wasn’t able to happen because of the injury, but don’t be surprised if it happens during the regular season. Some believe Monk is undersized for shooting guard in the NBA, but his skill set will allow him to play either guard position.

“I think they want me to do both,” Monk said. “I think I can do it pretty good.”

Monk also compared his new All-Star teammate, Kemba Walker, to his former Wildcat teammate De’Aaron Fox. Fox, as we all know, was drafted 5th overall to the Sacramento Kings. “Kemba does everything just like Fox,” Monk said.

Lastly, Monk’s cocky swagger made its return, as he called out his new owner Michael Jordan. Malik once again stated that he’d beat the GOAT in a game of one-on-one.

“He’s pretty old right now,” Monk said of Jordan. “I think I can get him.”

Jordan, now 54 years old, probably can still hit that jumper with ease. I’d personally like to see him take on Monk’s challenge.