Ben Simmons could be closing in on an NBA return in the upcoming 2026-2027 season after Sacramento Kings general manager Scott Perry travelled to Florida to personally evaluate his current shape and sharpness. The Clippers forward has been working out following his training with the Australian national team, aiming to prove he belongs back in the league after a year away. Perry’s visit signals serious interest from Sacramento as Simmons looks to secure a contract for next campaign.
What happened with Ben Simmons and the Kings?
According to Sactown Sports’ Carmichael Dave, Perry’s trip to Florida was confirmed on The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross, where Dave emphasized that the Kings’ front office is actively assessing Simmons’ readiness. Simmons participated without restrictions in a player-led Australian minicamp in Melbourne, playing alongside NBA players like Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels, and reported feeling his best in years. This evaluation comes as Simmons remains open to a veteran minimum contract, though league insiders note teams are mostly offering training camp invites or non-guaranteed deals.
Why it matters for the Los Angeles Clippers
Although Simmons last played for the Clippers during the 2024-25 season - including a rebound in a March 26, 2025 win over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden - his future now hinges on whether Sacramento or another team offers him a guaranteed roster spot. The Clippers, who lost their last two games and hold a 2W-0D-3L record in their last five (LLWWL, most recent first), recently fell 120-101 to the Denver Nuggets on May 3, 2025, highlighting their own need for veteran depth. Simmons’ potential return could influence how LA approaches its own roster planning moving forward.
What comes next for Simmons’ NBA comeback
If signed by Sacramento, Simmons is expected to mentor young point guard Darius Acuff, the Kings’ seventh pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, adding veteran leadership to a developing backcourt. This interest joins earlier Kings inquiries into Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo, both also attempting comebacks. Simmons’ journey back has been hindered by psychological hurdles, passivity, and chronic physical issues, including multiple back surgeries for nerve impingement that derailed his elite athleticism after his All-Star days with the 76ers and a rocky stint with the Nets. For now, his Florida workout represents a tangible step toward proving he can contribute at the NBA level again.
Fans tracking the Clippers’ roster moves can stay updated on potential signings and veteran workouts via our [squad](/squad) page, while those interested in how LA compares to other teams can review current [standings](/standings).
