Pacers Sign Monta Ellis Despite the Kings Efforts
By Dave McKee
Dec 9, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Dallas Mavericks shooting guard Monta Ellis (11) steals the ball from Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) during the second quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Dallas Mavericks 112-97. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
Monta Ellis: The Plot Twist
By the next morning, Sacramento had already reached out to Ellis with an offer and were trying to get him in for a face-to-face visit. The Kings had more money to offer than Indiana it was beginning to look like the Pacers were going have to look to Plan B and get Rodney Stuckey on the phone.
Up-to-date schedule of Kings' planned face-to-face visits this week: Wes Matthews today, Rajon Rondo on Friday, Monta Ellis still TBD
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 2, 2015
Just when it began to look like the Kings had stolen the prize. Larry Legend would not be denied. He made a counter offer upping the ante from the original 3-year, $32 million dollar offer to a 4-year $44 Million dollar offer with a player option for the fourth season. Ellis passed on the Kings offer and chose sign with Indiana. What is most interesting is passed on an extra $1 million per season had he gone to Sacramento.
Monta's deal with Pacers worth $44 million. Player option after 3rd year
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) July 2, 2015
Sources: Monta Ellis turned down more $ from Sacramento. Kings offered $48 million over 4 years
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) July 2, 2015