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Kings Cautious: Simmons' Debut Set for Thursday or Saturday
6 Oct
Summary
- Ben Simmons' highly anticipated debut has been postponed.
- He is expected to play on Thursday or Saturday against the Lakers or Warriors.
- Sources report Simmons is healthy and had an outstanding training camp.
Ben Simmons' debut with the Sacramento Kings has been delayed, with the team opting for a cautious approach to ramp up the player following his absence from NBA games since April 2025. He is not expected to play in the Kings' preseason opener on Monday night against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Sources close to the situation reported that Simmons is anticipated to take the court for the first time this preseason on either Thursday, October 8, 2026, against the Lakers, or Saturday, October 10, 2026, versus the Golden State Warriors. The franchise is prioritizing his gradual reintroduction after a significant layoff.
Despite the delay, Simmons has reportedly declared himself healthy, both physically and mentally, for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Reports from training camp have been overwhelmingly positive, with NBA insider Marc J. Spears noting that Simmons is performing exceptionally well and could be a starter within the first month of the season. Comparisons have been drawn to his highly productive years with the Philadelphia 76ers, during which he achieved Rookie of the Year honors and multiple All-Star selections.
