Ben Simmons is officially back in the NBA, and for real this time. After not playing a single game last season, the former Brooklyn Nets guard just inked a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Sacramento Kings, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Friday. A full season off, and now a fresh start. Who saw this comeback coming, and what does it truly mean for the Kings?
The Long Road Back to the Hardwood
Simmons sat out the entire 2025-26 campaign, holding out for a situation that truly fit his needs. That’s a bold move for a player who’s dealt with injuries and public scrutiny. Remember his Nets stint? They brought him in hoping his unique size and passing could be the missing piece for a title. But that dream never materialized, and he barely saw the floor. Now, at 30 years old, Simmons is getting another shot, proving he wasn’t done. Charania’s report detailed his recent Sacramento trip on Monday, where he underwent thorough medical exams, hit the court for a rigorous workout, and met with coach Doug Christie and staffers. This isn’t just a casual signing; it’s a meticulously planned return.
Numbers, Health, and a Side Hustle
It truly sounds like Simmons is ready to put the past behind him. In late August, he also worked out for General Manager Scott Perry and spent an hour meeting with him. Crucially, reports from within the Kings, as well as Team Australia officials who saw Simmons at a minicamp last month, all confirm the same thing: he’s looking and feeling strong health-wise. That’s paramount for a guy who’s battled so many injuries.
Let’s talk numbers. His career averages sit at 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, shooting an efficient 55.8% from the field. However, his four seasons with Brooklyn told a different story, with those averages dropping to 6.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, and a concerning 50.0% from the charity stripe. It’s a stark contrast that highlights the challenge ahead. But here’s a wild card: during his season off, Simmons wasn’t just rehabbing. He became the controlling owner of the South Florida Sails in the Sport Fishing Championship! You know he’s still gonna find time for that passion.
So, what does this grand return truly mean for the Sacramento Kings? They’re getting a former All-Star who brings unique passing, defensive prowess, and size. But they’re also taking on a player whose recent NBA history has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency, especially those struggles at the free-throw line. With Simmons now cleared medically and re-energized after his hiatus, the focus immediately shifts to how he performs on the court. It’s a low-cost, high-upside gamble at $3.5 million for one year, and every single Kings fan will be watching this season with bated breath to see if this bet pays off. What a story this could be.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply