Sacramento Kings positions itself as the last opportunity for Ben Simmons in the NBA

Ben Simmons is seeking a new opportunity in the NBA, and the Sacramento Kings have emerged as one of the most interested destinations for the Australian's return. The former number one draft pick could find in California a final chance to revive his career after several years marked by injuries, physical issues, and a gradual decline in his value in the league.

The situation is particularly striking because not long ago, Simmons was one of the most promising players in the NBA. A three-time All-Star, defensive specialist, and extraordinary passer for his size, he was once considered one of the great young talents in the competition. Now, at 30 years old, he needs to convince a franchise that enough of that player remains to justify a gamble.

Sacramento considers a low-risk gamble

The Kings' interest reportedly increased after their general manager, Scott Perry, recently observed a Simmons workout. According to the reports, the executive was impressed by his condition and is seriously considering offering him a contract.

The proposal would make sense if Sacramento can keep the financial risk low. Simmons is no longer in a position to demand a significant contract and would likely have to accept a reduced salary agreement with few guarantees. For the Kings, this would turn the deal into a low-risk and potentially high-reward gamble.

The main appeal would not lie in his scoring ability. Simmons never developed a reliable outside shot, and it doesn’t seem reasonable to expect that, after everything that has happened, he will now become a constant offensive threat. His value would be in other aspects: defense, size, passing ability, and positional versatility.

Precisely there could be a role for him in Sacramento. A healthy Simmons could defend various profiles, help with rebounding, and act as a secondary playmaker without needing to monopolize the ball.

Can he become the player he once was?

This is the big question. Simmons played only 51 games in the 2024-25 season between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers, averaging a modest 5.0 points and 5.6 assists in 22 minutes per game. He then spent the 2025-26 season without playing.

The issue, therefore, is not just whether he retains his technical skills. It is about whether his body allows him to play consistently and, above all, if he still possesses the explosiveness that made his defense and penetration abilities standout assets.

There is also a question of mentality. Recent years have significantly eroded his reputation, and each new attempt at a comeback has been accompanied by doubts. Sacramento would need to ensure that Simmons is genuinely willing to compete, accept a limited role, and rebuild his career from the ground up.

The alternative to Philadelphia

The Kings' potential interest becomes even more relevant because the option for a return to the Philadelphia 76ers appears to have cooled. Simmons has left that possibility open, but the arrival of new pieces to Philadelphia's project does not guarantee that there is space for him.

Sacramento could represent a completely different context: less pressure, an evident need for defensive players, and the possibility of providing him minutes if he proves he is ready.

Conclusion

Ben Simmons is no longer in a position to demand prominence or a contract in line with his former status. But this is precisely why Sacramento could be an interesting opportunity for both parties. The Kings can afford to see if there is still something left of the All-Star he once was, while Simmons might have his last chance to prove that he still belongs in the NBA. The contract should be inexpensive, and the expectations modest, but the talent that may still be hidden behind all these years of issues makes the gamble worth exploring.

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