Hornets Looking to Monk to Produce off Bench

Hornets guard Malik Monk is one of the fastest rising stars on a team competing for a playoff spot in a tightly-packed Eastern Conference.

While Monk's blue-collar approach to improving his game has certainly increased his playing time, he also credits future Hall-of-Famer Tony Parker for mentoring him.

"He (Parker) is helping a lot," said Monk before Friday's game with Memphis. "He's always going to pitch in with something even if it's with the coaches."

Hornets coach James Borrego has been critical of Monk's defense this season but Monk was able to work his way back into the coach's good graces by improving both his offense and defense.

"He's one of those dynamic offensive players," Borrego said. "He can get you 15 in a heartbeat. He can get hot quick. And I think he's getting better.

In Wednesday's loss to Boston, Monk reached double-digits for the second straight game. He's taken 26 shots and 17 3-pointers in his last two contests.