Ben Simmons Expected to Start Kings Opener

Ben Simmons is returning to the NBA with the Sacramento Kings after missing the 2025-26 season, signing a one-year contract following workouts that convinced the team he was healthy and motivated. Simmons said he had not felt healthy in two years and missed playing basketball; the Kings were among several teams interested, though Sacramento was the only one reported to offer him a deal. He is expected to start alongside rookie Darius Acuff, with Sacramento counting on his playmaking, defense and veteran leadership alongside its primary scorers. Simmons appeared briefly in a preseason game, and he has reportedly set a goal of playing all 82 regular-season games, a significant test given his injury history and limited availability in recent seasons. Kings legend Chris Webber voiced optimism that Sacramento can help Simmons thrive, while Simmons will need to turn the opportunity into consistent on-court production.