Malik Monk Reinstated From NBA Suspension After Alleged Cocaine Use

The news that Malik Monk was previously suspended for violating the NBA's anti-drug program flew under many fans' radars. 😳

Back in late February, Charlotte Hornets guard Monk was indefinitely suspended by the league until he was back in "full compliance" with the program.

But during a virtual press conference on Monday, Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak shared that Monk has been working out and participating in team meetings via video chat.

"That's been a while now," Kupchak said about Monk finishing his suspension. "He went through his program, and my understanding was he was reinstated as soon as possible. He has been in our facility and participated in all team activities."

He continued, "Whenever we can resume some [group] activity, hopefully on a formal basis, he'll be there." Sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, the Hornets just missed the cut for the recently announced resumed regular season in Orlando.

While the drug that Monk messed with was never officially revealed, Yahoo Sports noted that Monk’s suspension fit a player in Stage 1 of the Drugs of Abuse program (cocaine, heroin, etc.).

If this were true, Monk would've had 30 days to comply, or he would’ve been upgraded to Stage 2 and faced a potential voided contract.

The 22-year-old from the University of Kentucky was drafted 11th overall by the Hornets in 2017. Coming off the bench for about 21 minutes per game this season, Monk is averaging 10.3 points and 2.1 assists.

With this meager output and the NBA season being paused about two weeks after Monk was suspended, many fans were shocked to learn for the first time that he had been sitting out for allegedly doing cocaine.

Drug abuse is obviously a serious issue, so let's hope Monk is able to stay focused, healthy and safe.