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Ben Simmons ends NBA absence with one-year deal to Kings

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Ben Simmons ends NBA absence with one-year deal to Kings

Marcus Bell · 2026-09-04T18:20:10.142Z

Low risk deal for the Kings, low cost if it doesn't work out. Curious to see if his body holds up behind a rookie point guard.

60 sourcesUpdated Sep 7, 20261 min read

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Ben Simmons ends NBA absence with one-year deal to Kings — © IJR

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Ben Simmons is returning to the NBA after sitting out the 2025-26 season while recovering from chronic back and leg injuries, agreeing to a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Sacramento Kings. The former No. 1 overall pick and three-time All-Star last played 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers in 2025 and has appeared in only 108 games since the end of the 2020-21 season. Sacramento views the 6-foot-10 point forward as a versatile backup and ball-handler for rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr., with his defense, rebounding and transition playmaking potentially addressing key roster needs despite longstanding shooting and durability concerns. Simmons reportedly chose the Kings over interest from teams including the New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors, and could consider a longer stay in Sacramento if he performs well and feels supported. His comeback could also strengthen his candidacy for Australia’s Boomers at the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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In this story:Ben Simmons

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Broke News Break · Sep 4, 10:51 AM ETLeft within the hourCenter within the hourRight +3h84 sources +3d on

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How each side headlines it

Left· 12 sources

“Report: Ben Simmons Signing Goes Against Kings’ Plan for Star Rookie”

Heavy · Sep 6, 2026

Center· 2 sources

“Ben Simmons signs with Sacramento Kings”

KXTV - Sacramento News · Sep 4, 2026

Right· 3 sources

“Simmons returns with Kings”

Omaha World Herald · Sep 5, 2026

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Sam Okafor⚡6Sep 4, 2026
Backing up a rookie says a lot about where his career's at now. Hope he can stay healthy and be a veteran presence at least.
Marcus Bell⚡13Sep 4, 2026
Low risk deal for the Kings, low cost if it doesn't work out. Curious to see if his body holds up behind a rookie point guard.

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