Ben Simmons is back in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings after a full year away from the game, and he is not holding back about why he did it. The 30-year-old just told NBC Sports California’s Deuce Mason and Morgan Ragan that his year off was “the best thing I’ve done in my career,” a **bold** statement after such a lengthy run of injuries.
Why a Year Away Was The Play
Simmons made it crystal clear he absolutely needed that time off, shutting down any whispers or criticism about his decision. He said, “I just think for myself, I needed it. People can say what they want about not wanting to play, this, that and the third. But I needed to get away from the game, I needed to get my back right to be able to play this game at a high level.” It sounds like he faced a lot of doubters too, because he added, “I think the one thing people kept saying to me was, ‘It’s gonna be hard to get back.’ And I was fine with that, but I also know what I’m able to give the game.” This guy knows what he’s capable of, and he clearly prioritized his health to get there.
From Bright Star to Comeback Kid
Remember when Simmons was one of the brightest young stars in the league? It feels like ages ago. He hit some serious roadblocks with difficult setbacks that just totally made him lose his mojo. But get this: in his **only** preseason game for the Kings, he showed flashes of his old self, dropping seven points in a quick nine minutes against the Golden State Warriors last Saturday. That’s a tiny sample size, sure, but it’s a start, right? He is a two-way contributor when he’s on, and the Kings are banking on that version of him to show up.
If Simmons can truly get back to being that reliable two-way force, he could be **huge** for the Kings. They’re trying to speed up their rebuild and honestly, they need all the help they can get to keep pace in what is a stacked Western Conference. Every game counts, and a healthy, motivated Simmons could make a massive difference for them right away.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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