Charlotte Hornets: Malik Monk suspended indefinitely after failed drug test

After starting in the first game of his career for the Charlotte Hornets, Malik Monk has now been suspended indefinitely.

Hours before the Charlotte Hornets’ game against the New York Knicks on Wednesday, shocking news broke about Malik Monk. After Monk started in his first career game, he will now be suspended indefinitely after not passing a drug test.

On Wednesday, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that Malik Monk has been suspended for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. Monk will remain suspended until he is in compliance with the NBA’s anti-drug policy.

Shortly following the news on Monk’s suspension, the Hornets released a statement. The team stated, “We are disappointed in Malik’s decision-making that resulted in his suspension. As an organization, we do not condone his behavior.” The team also stated that they’re committed to supporting Monk during this time.

This news is shocking and does hurt the Hornets heading into Wednesday night’s game. What makes it more surprising is that the suspension comes less than 24 hours after his first career start.

As of late, Monk has played well for the Charlotte Hornets. Monk recently had two back-to-back games where he finished with 25 points off the bench; this is something that has not been done by a Hornets bench player since Dell Curry.

Monk’s recent play is what earned him the first start of his career in Tuesday’s loss to the Indiana Pacers. In that loss, Monk finished with 8 points, three assists, and 27 minutes of court time.

Monk has had an inconsistent season so far, but he’s managed to average 10.3 points and 2.9 rebounds per game. The month of February has been kind to Monk, as he’s averaged 16.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game.

With Monk out in Wednesday’s game, the team will need to scramble to come up with a backup plan. The Hornets have a variety of options at their disposal for their sixth-man role.