Sacramento Kings guard Ben Simmons is feared to have suffered a season-ending Achilles tendon injury during practice on Sunday, October 18, 2026, potentially ending his 2026–27 NBA season before it officially begins.
According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, Simmons is believed to have sustained a torn Achilles tendon, a devastating setback following what was described as an impressive training camp and preseason.
The reported injury threatens to derail Simmons’ attempt to revitalize his NBA career with Sacramento.
What Happened to Ben Simmons?
Simmons reportedly suffered the injury during a Sacramento Kings practice on Sunday.
Charania reported that sources believe the veteran guard tore his Achilles tendon, an injury that could require surgery and an extended rehabilitation period.
The initial report described the injury as potentially season-ending, although the exact severity and treatment plan have not yet been confirmed.
An official medical evaluation would be needed to establish the full extent of the injury.
Is Ben Simmons Out for the Entire 2026–27 NBA Season?
Simmons could miss the entire 2026–27 NBA season if a complete Achilles tendon rupture is confirmed.
A torn Achilles is among the most serious injuries for professional basketball players because it affects explosive movements, acceleration, jumping and the ability to change direction.
Recovery from an Achilles rupture commonly takes approximately 9 to 12 months, although some NBA players require longer before returning to competitive action.
With the 2026–27 NBA regular season approaching, such a recovery timeline would put Simmons’ entire season in jeopardy.
How Long Will Ben Simmons Be Out?
The potential recovery timeline depends on whether Simmons sustained a complete or partial Achilles tear, whether surgery is necessary and how rehabilitation progresses.
If the injury is confirmed as a complete rupture, Simmons could face the following general recovery process:
- First several weeks: Initial treatment, immobilization and early rehabilitation.
- Months 2–4: Progressive mobility, strengthening and physical therapy.
- Months 5–8: Advanced conditioning and basketball-specific rehabilitation, depending on recovery.
- Months 9–12 or longer: Possible return to competitive basketball after medical clearance.
These are general recovery estimates, not an official timetable for Simmons.
Ben Simmons Injury Comes After Promising Kings Preseason
The timing of Simmons’ reported injury is particularly unfortunate because the veteran guard had reportedly enjoyed a rejuvenated training camp and strong preseason performances.
Simmons, a former NBA All-Star and one of the league’s most versatile defenders during his prime, had been working to reestablish himself as a productive contributor.
His combination of size, passing ability, defensive versatility and transition playmaking has historically made him a unique player.
A healthy season in Sacramento could have provided an opportunity for Simmons to rebuild momentum and demonstrate his value in the NBA.
Instead, the reported Achilles injury raises significant questions about his immediate playing future.
How Does Ben Simmons’ Injury Affect the Sacramento Kings?
If Simmons is ruled out for the season, Sacramento would lose a potentially valuable contributor to its backcourt rotation.
His absence could affect several areas of the Kings’ roster, including defensive versatility, secondary playmaking, transition offense and overall guard depth.
Sacramento could be forced to adjust its rotation or explore additional roster options depending on Simmons’ official diagnosis and expected recovery timeline.
The Kings’ coaching staff would also need to determine how to redistribute the minutes and responsibilities Simmons was expected to handle.
When Will Ben Simmons Return to the NBA?
There is currently no confirmed return date for Simmons.
If medical testing confirms a complete Achilles rupture, a return during the 2026–27 NBA season would be unlikely given the typical rehabilitation timeline.
A possible return during the 2027–28 season would depend on his treatment, recovery and medical clearance.
The next important development will be an official injury announcement from the Sacramento Kings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Ben Simmons suffer?
Simmons reportedly sustained a suspected torn Achilles tendon during Sacramento Kings practice on October 18, 2026.
Is Ben Simmons out for the season?
According to the report attributed to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the injury is suspected to be season-ending. An official diagnosis has not yet been confirmed.
How long does a torn Achilles take to heal?
Professional basketball players frequently require approximately 9 to 12 months or longer to return to competition following a complete Achilles rupture.
What team does Ben Simmons play for in 2026?
According to the supplied report, Simmons is a guard for the Sacramento Kings.
Final Thoughts
Ben Simmons’ reported Achilles injury represents a potentially devastating setback for both the veteran guard and the Sacramento Kings ahead of the 2026–27 NBA season.
After an encouraging training camp and preseason, Simmons appeared positioned to begin a new chapter in his NBA career.
However, if the suspected Achilles tear is confirmed, his focus could shift from preparing for the regular season to an extended rehabilitation process.
The Kings and Simmons will await further medical findings to determine the severity of the injury and the next steps in his recovery.