LOS ANGELES _ If Malik Monk doesn't score, there's no argument for him to play.
Monk went 34 minutes over two games without tallying a point. He took just seven shots in that span. In those 34 minutes against the Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers, the Charlotte Hornets were outscored by 53.
So something had to change for Monk to stay in the Hornets' rotation. Something did Monday night against the Los Angeles Clippers: Almost immediately upon entering the game, Monk hit a 3-pointer. He took three more shots in the first half, making them all. By game's end, he had 15 points on 7-of-12 shooting.
Monk rediscovered aggression.
"I've been way too passive." Monk said after the Hornets' 111-96 road loss.
"Thinking way too much, trying to get other people involved. I've just got to attack."
This early in the season, Monk already was at risk of being left behind. He's in the second unit, playing behind starter Dwayne Bacon at shooting guard. Monk is only two seasons into his NBA career, but newer guys like forwards P.J. Washington and Miles Bridges look more like the Hornets' future.
Friday, the Hornets picked up the option on Monk's contract for next season, guaranteeing him about $5 million. His ensuing performances made that gesture look questionable.
Only he could fix that.
"Me being aggressive opens everything up," Monk said. "For me, and my teammates, too."
