Full Breakdown
Ben Simmons Returns to the NBA on One-Year Deal with the Sacramento Kings
9/4/2026, 8:14:57 PM
Core Event: Simmons Signs with the Kings
Former No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons agreed to a one-year, veteran-minimum contract worth $3.5 million with the Sacramento Kings. His agents Max Wiepking, Sean Tribe and Ryan Arney confirmed the deal to ESPN’s Shams Charania. After missing the 2025-26 season to rehab back and leg injuries, Simmons completed a medical exam and on-court workout at the Kings’ Sacramento facility before the contract was finalized. The team expects him to serve as a backup guard behind rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr., with the ability to play multiple positions.
Background & Context
Simmons last appeared in the NBA during the 2024-25 season, splitting 51 games between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers and averaging 5.0 points, 5.6 assists and 4.7 rebounds. The Philadelphia 76ers, who drafted him first overall in 2016, could not sign him because a veteran-minimum contract would have pushed them above their $209 million salary cap limit.
The Kings, who finished 22-60 last season and waived DeMar DeRozan in July, entered the offseason with a thin point-guard depth chart. Their previous offseason pursuit of Russell Westbrook fell through, leaving a need for a versatile, defensively capable wing who could mentor the young core.
Data & Statistics
- Career averages (through 2024-25): 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, 1.0 steal per game.
- 2024-25 season (Nets/Clippers): 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, 4.7 rebounds per game.
- Kings’ 2024-25 record: 22-60.
- Contract cap hit: $2.4 million (veteran-minimum figure), despite a $3.5 million salary.
Official Statements & Responses
Kings general manager Scott Perry said Simmons impressed him during a workout in Miami and an hour-long meeting in late August. Coach Doug Christie and staff noted his performance during an on-court session at the Sacramento practice facility. The Kings framed the signing as a “high-upside reclamation project” with potential on-court contribution and future trade value.
Why It Matters
For Sacramento, the contract carries minimal financial risk while offering a versatile defender who can mentor Acuff and other young players. If Simmons regains form, the Kings could leverage him as a trade asset at the deadline or retain him beyond the veteran-minimum year. Conversely, a limited impact would leave the Kings with little loss, mirroring the outcome of their prior Westbrook signing. For Simmons, the season is a pivotal test: a successful stint could extend his NBA career, while continued struggles may signal its conclusion.
Verbatim Quote
- “I do think Simmons should get another opportunity in the NBA, but not with the Knicks,” — Justin Edwards
