In a surprising turn of events, Ben Simmons is officially returning to the NBA after a year-long hiatus. According to reports from ESPN's Shams Charania and Marc Spears, Simmons has signed a one-year contract worth $3.5 million with the Sacramento Kings. This move comes after he sat out the entire 2025-26 season, raising questions about his future in professional basketball.
On Monday, Simmons traveled to Sacramento for a crucial visit where he underwent a series of in-depth medical evaluations, participated in an on-court workout, and had meetings with Kings' head coach Doug Christie and other staff members. This step marks a significant milestone in Simmons's journey toward re-entering the league.
Prior to this agreement, Simmons had other teams interested in adding him to their rosters. Notably, the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and Minnesota Timberwolves showed varying levels of intrigue, as reported by The Athletic's Sam Amick and ESPN's Spears. However, it seems that the Kings ultimately made the best offer for the former No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.
The Rise and Struggle of Ben Simmons
Once heralded as a franchise cornerstone during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, Simmons's career took a detour due to a series of injuries. Since the 2020-21 season, he has been unable to play more than 60 games in a season, culminating in missing the entire 2021-22 campaign. The most recent season, 2024-25, saw him play 51 games, his most significant participation since his earlier injuries, averaging 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds while playing for the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers.
A New Chapter in Sacramento
Though Simmons's prime playing days may seem behind him, he brings notable skills to the table that can benefit the Kings significantly. The team's roster is in need of depth, particularly in the playmaking department, following the trade of their star point guard De'Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. Simmons’s versatility allows him to play various positions, giving Sacramento the flexibility it desperately needs.
For Simmons, this contract represents a fresh start and an opportunity to redefine his career. He expressed on multiple occasions his desire to return to the court only when he felt “bulletproof.” In a conversation with The Athletic's Sam Jane in December, he reiterated this sentiment, prioritizing his physical and mental readiness before committing fully to gameplay again. By June, Simmons was working diligently toward his NBA comeback, naming Miami and Philadelphia as potential landing spots, emphasizing a desire to play for a winning culture.
Impact on the Kings' Roster
The addition of Simmons may not immediately transform Sacramento into championship contenders, but it undeniably adds depth and a strategic element that they’ve been lacking. His unique skill set includes an adept passing ability and defensive presence, both of which can complement the Kings' style of play. Simmons could serve as a critical floor general, especially alongside rookie Darius Acuff Jr., who will benefit from having an experienced player to mentor him and share responsibilities on the court.
While he may not be relied upon as a primary scoring option, Simmons’s capability to facilitate plays and find open teammates makes him a valuable asset. The Kings need an influx of creativity and intelligence on the court post-Fox, and Simmons fits that bill even if he’s not the All-Star player he once was.
Looking Ahead
As Simmons embarks on this new chapter with the Kings, the NBA community remains cautiously optimistic about his potential comeback. The league has witnessed numerous stories of redemption and resurgence, and Simmons's return could be just that. His adaptation to this new role and synergy with the Kings will be critical in determining the impact he can have this season.
With training camp approaching and the preseason on the horizon, all eyes will be on how Simmons integrates himself into the Kings’ system. Can he regain his confidence and reinvigorate his playing style? Only time will tell as Sacramento fans hope for a revitalization of their team’s fortune.
