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NBA: 15 Players Not Living Up To 2015 Summer Contracts

By Gerald Bourguet

Nov 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns center Tyson Chandler (4) and guard Brandon Knight (3) against the Sacramento Kings at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Kings 118-97. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns center Tyson Chandler (4) and guard Brandon Knight (3) against the Sacramento Kings at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Kings 118-97. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Monta Ellis (11) brings the ball up court against the Los Angeles Clippers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

14. Monta Ellis

This might feel out of place after Monta Ellis put up a 25-6-5 stat line Thursday night, but there’s no denying that he hasn’t “had it all” since signing on with the Pacers for four years and $44 million. In fact, his 14.0 points and 5.0 assists per game are the lowest numbers of his career since his rookie season.

Ellis is only shooting 43.5 percent from the field and 30.1 percent from three-point range this season. Head coach Frank Vogel has mixed up his lineup so much that playmaking duties have vacillated to and from Ellis, especially when point guard George Hill is on the floor.

However, Ellis’ newfound commitment to the defensive end fits in perfectly with the Pacers’ new yet familiar identity. “He works his tail off on that end,” Vogel said before playing the Suns in January. “He’s enhanced our ability to force turnovers with his pressure. He’s got great hands and great defensive instincts in the passing lane.” Ellis’ defensive pressure has helped Indiana turn defense into offense, but the Pacers’ marquee free agency acquisition has yet to find a more lasting offensive groove.

Next: No. 13