The Sacramento Kings have made a noteworthy move by signing Ben Simmons to a one-year contract valued at $3.5 million, marking the former No. 1 overall pick's return to the NBA after a year-long absence from the league. This decision, reported by ESPN's Shams Charania and Marc J. Spears, reflects the Kings' strategy to explore low-risk options as they rebuild their roster.
Simmons, now 30 years old, is poised to embark on his 10th NBA season, provided he can successfully navigate the challenges that have plagued his career in recent years. After spending the entire previous season sidelined, Simmons has reportedly been preparing for his comeback, participating in workouts with the Kings and showing promising signs of regaining his form. Scouts from the Kings' front office attended one of these workouts in Florida, where Simmons was described as looking impressive.
This contract is structured in a way that minimizes risk for the Kings. They are not investing in an All-Star player but rather taking a chance on whether Simmons can still contribute as a viable rotation player. Given the modest financial commitment, this gamble appears to be a prudent move for a franchise that finished the previous season with a dismal 22-60 record, ranking 14th in the competitive Western Conference.
The Kings' roster has undergone changes since last season, with DeMar DeRozan departing and Darius Acuff Jr., the No. 7 overall pick, stepping into a key role as the point guard of the future. Despite these adjustments, the team still requires additional playmaking and defensive capabilities. Simmons fits this need, as he can serve as a ball-handler, rebounder, and versatile defender. In his last season on the court, Simmons averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in just 22 minutes per game, showcasing his passing ability despite his struggles to score.
However, concerns remain regarding Simmons' shooting capabilities. He did not attempt a single three-pointer in his last season, and defenses have historically ignored him on the perimeter. This lack of shooting could complicate his fit alongside key players like Domantas Sabonis, who thrives in the paint. The Kings must navigate this dynamic carefully, as a Simmons-Sabonis pairing could potentially hinder offensive spacing.
Another significant factor in this equation is Simmons' health. He has not played in an NBA game since the 2024-25 season, with injuries affecting his participation over the past few years. While there are indications that he has been training without restrictions, the uncertainty surrounding his physical condition remains a primary concern. If he can manage to stay healthy and regain his form, even a modest contribution from Simmons could prove beneficial for the Kings.
In conclusion, the Kings' decision to sign Ben Simmons can be graded as a B+. This move demonstrates a shift in the franchise's approach, as they seek to rebuild after a disappointing season. While Simmons alone will not turn the team into a contender, his unique skill set and potential to contribute defensively make this a worthwhile investment. With minimal financial risk and no long-term commitments, the Kings are taking a calculated step forward in their quest to improve.
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