Ben Simmons’ bid to restart his NBA career has suffered a major setback after scans confirmed he tore his right Achilles tendon during a live drill at Sacramento Kings practice. The 30-year-old is scheduled to undergo surgery and will miss the entire season, the team said.
Simmons had signed a one-year deal with the Kings in an effort to revive a career that had been interrupted by repeated physical injuries and struggles with mental health over the past five years. The former No. 1 overall draft pick and three-time All-Star had been preparing to make his debut for Sacramento.
The injury occurred three days before the Kings were due to open their season against the Los Angeles Clippers, dealing a late blow to the club’s plans. The team now faces the immediate task of adjusting its rotation and roster plans with Simmons sidelined for the campaign.
For Simmons personally, the torn Achilles represents another significant obstacle after a prolonged period out of sustained on-court action. The setback will require surgical repair and a lengthy recovery, putting on hold the latest attempt to return to the level that once made him one of the league’s most accomplished young players.
The Kings and the broader NBA will now await further details on Simmons’ surgery and recovery timeline, while the player’s long-term prospects for returning in subsequent seasons will depend on his rehabilitation and ability to regain form following the operation. His absence reshapes expectations for both his own career trajectory and Sacramento’s short-term plans.