Malik Monk’s shooting range — ‘further than’ Steph Curry — impresses Suns

Former University of Kentucky guard Malik Monk, who is projected to be a high lottery pick in the NBA Draft on June 22, worked out for the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.

And it appears it went very well.

“He had one of the best shooting performances we’ve seen from deep with a workout over the past few years,” Suns assistant general manager Pat Connelly told reporters afterward.

“He has one of those strokes that adjusts well to the deeper shot,” Connelly said, according to a report by The Arizona Republic. “You don’t have to do a ton for him. He finds a way to put the ball in the bucket and gets it in spurts. He goes on these big scoring runs.”

Asked about any limits on his shooting range, Monk told ArizonaSports.com: “I don’t have any, as soon as I step in the gym,” he said with a smile.

When asked how his range compares to Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, Monk replied, “Mine is further than his.”

The Suns’ roster is already loaded with former Kentucky players — Devin Booker, Eric Bledsoe, Tyler Ulis and Brandon Knight.

“We don’t like Kentucky guards, apparently,” Connelly joked, according to ArizonaSports.com. “Every year Coach (John) Calipari produces a strong class. Obviously, we have a like for them. It does help that (Monk has) played at a high level. He’s been in the spotlight. Playing in Lexington is not easy just through the attention. Those guys are rock stars down there.”

Monk said the Suns’ crowded backcourt wouldn’t be an issue for him.

“The best player is going to play, that’s what I think,” he said. “I don’t shy away from competition. If it’s two guards here that’s (at) my position, that’s good for me. I’m going to have to push and try to fight for that position.”

The Arizona Republic reported that Monk said he exchanges text messages with Ulis every other day and Booker at least once a week.

“It’s crazy all of them are here at once,” he said. “If I get here, I’d be happy here.”

Tuesday’s workout was Monk’s first, and he said he’d be visiting the Orlando Magic next.

This story was originally published June 6, 2017 at 7:09 PM with the headline "Malik Monk’s shooting range — ‘further than’ Steph Curry — impresses Suns."