Apr 25, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guardis guarded by Miami Heat forwardduring game three of the first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

According to Yahoo Sports’ Marc Spears, Milwaukee Bucks guard Monta Ellis is interested in playing for Sacramento after the team hired Mike Malone this afternoon.

Per Marc Spears:

Monta Ellis’ potential interest in joining @ SacramentoKings as a FA became much stronger with hiring of Mike Malone as coach, source told Y!

Ellis, who holds a player option for the upcoming season has stated he may opt-out to secure a longer, more lucrative deal. His current player option would pay the Mississippi native $11 million dollars in what would be the final year of his 6 year, $66 million dollar extension which he signed back in 2008.

Spears goes on to say that Ellis gained a great deal of respect for Malone during their time together in Oakland and a reunion would be on his short list:

While with GSt,Monta Ellis gained a great deal of respect for Malone’s basketball IQ, ability to teach & easy way relating well with players

The former second round pick will turn 28 just days before the opening of the 2013-2014 NBA season.