Sacramento Kings Explore Trades After Simmons Injury
The Kings are looking to the Memphis Grizzlies for help following an Achilles injury to veteran Ben Simmons.
Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Basketball
The Sacramento Kings are evaluating potential trade options with the Memphis Grizzlies to bolster their roster. The move comes after 30-year-old Ben Simmons suffered an Achilles injury that sidelines him.
Why it matters
The Kings are seeking trades because Ben Simmons' injury left voids in the roster that the team needs to fill. They are currently assessing trade options specifically to address requirements for perimeter depth and rebounding.
Ben Simmons averaged 2.9 points and 3.8 rebounds per game over 18 appearances in the 2024-25 season. He is currently 30 years old.
The players
Ben Simmons
He is a 30-year-old professional basketball player who previously played for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 season.
Sacramento Kings
They are a professional NBA team based in Sacramento currently looking to address roster voids through trades.
Memphis Grizzlies
They are an NBA team based in Memphis that is currently exploring trade possibilities with the Sacramento Kings.
Kawhi Leonard
He is a prominent professional basketball player who publicly commented on the recovery prospects for Ben Simmons.
The details
The Sacramento Kings are actively assessing trade partners, including the Memphis Grizzlies, to compensate for the sudden loss of perimeter depth. Kawhi Leonard has noted that Simmons can recover, with plans for a return to the court in 2027.
Timeline
Ben Simmons played 18 games for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 season.
Kawhi Leonard indicated in 2026 that Simmons can recover from his injury.
Ben Simmons plans to return to the court in 2027.
Season Trajectory
The Sacramento Kings' pivot toward the trade market follows the standard pattern of team adjustments required by league rules after season-ending injuries. This search for perimeter depth and rebounding will directly impact the team's competitiveness within the division.
The Kings must now secure perimeter depth to maintain their defensive rotations and rebounding rates. Fantasy managers should adjust projections accordingly, as the loss of Simmons significantly alters the team's secondary production stats.
The takeaway
Teams frequently must recalibrate their mid-season strategy when veteran players suffer significant injuries. Fans and analysts should watch for roster announcements as the Kings finalize their trade objectives for the coming months.
Further reading
For more on roster moves and league updates, explore the Basketball section.
