Kings Forward Ben Simmons Out for Season After Surgery

The 30-year-old athlete will miss the 2026-27 season following surgery to repair a torn right Achilles tendon.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball

Kings Forward Ben Simmons Out for Season After Surgery

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Should professional athletes continue their careers after suffering multiple serious injuries?

Sacramento Kings forward Ben Simmons is set to miss the entire 2026-27 NBA season after suffering a torn right Achilles tendon during a practice drill. He underwent successful surgical repair for the injury in New York City on October 20, 2026.

Why it matters

The season-long absence marks a significant setback for the veteran, who had returned to the court for two preseason games before the injury occurred. Despite his medical leave, the Sacramento Kings will continue to honor his $3 million salary for the upcoming year.

Simmons averaged 10.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over 17.5 minutes per preseason game. He has not appeared in an official NBA game since April 29, 2025.

The players

Ben Simmons

A 30-year-old NBA forward known for his playmaking ability and his career trajectory as a former No. 1 overall draft pick.

Sacramento Kings

The professional basketball organization currently employing Simmons and managing his season-long recovery process.

Martin J. O'Malley

The orthopedic surgeon who performed the Achilles tendon repair surgery on Simmons in New York City.

The details

The 6-foot-10, 245-pound forward sustained the tear during a routine practice drill on October 18, 2026. Dr. Martin J. O'Malley performed the surgical procedure two days later in New York City.

Ben Simmons was selected No. 1 in the NBA draft in 2016.
Simmons played his last official NBA game on April 29, 2025.
Simmons participated in a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors on October 10, 2026.
The injury occurred and the documentary Being Ben debuted on October 18, 2026.
Simmons underwent surgical repair for his Achilles tendon on October 20, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This injury removes a primary veteran contributor from the Kings' roster, forcing the team to adjust its rotation and depth strategy for the remainder of the 2026-27 campaign. It also delays the competitive comeback attempt Simmons initiated during the preseason.

The Kings must now rely on bench depth to replace Simmons' preseason production of 10.5 points per game. Fantasy managers will need to adjust their rosters accordingly as the veteran will not return to the court this season.

The takeaway

Achilles injuries remain one of the most challenging setbacks for professional athletes due to the extensive recovery period required. Simmons now faces a lengthy rehabilitation process aimed at a return to NBA play in the following season.