Ben Simmons Returns Amid Controversy | Sacramento Kings News

Ben Simmons is back in the league on a one-year, $3.5M deal with the Sacramento Kings after sitting out the entire 2025-26 season to focus on his health, sparking debate with Patrick Beverley, who questioned why a player who “quit” gets another shot over consistent grinders. Simmons responded on social media, clarifying his absence was due to serious back and nerve issues requiring multiple surgeries, and that his health was proven in summer workouts. The Kings see him as a backup point guard behind rookie Darius Acuff Jr., betting on his size and defense — a move that highlights the complex tension between player recovery, mental health, and the brutal demands of the NBA. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ac4e4f842698cdf6