Can a Former 2016 First Overall Draft Pick Help the Kings in 2025-26?
As the 2025 NBA offseason continues, Ben Simmons remains one of the most intriguing unsigned free agents. Once considered one of the most unique and talented point forwards in the league, Simmons’ career has been slowed by injuries and inconsistent play. Despite that, the core skill set that made him a former all-star, including elite defense, rebounding, and playmaking, still has real value. For a team like the Sacramento Kings, which is entering a new era under fresh leadership and a reshaped roster, Simmons could be a high-upside addition if he’s willing to buy into a defined role.
The current Kings are led by Domantas Sabonis and rising forward Keegan Murray, and they’ve recently added veterans like Dennis Schröder and Zach LaVine. Simmons has already played alongside Schröder in Brooklyn, which could help with chemistry and comfort as he integrates into a new system. LaVine’s scoring ability on the wing would benefit from a playmaker like Simmons, who can run pick-and-roll, push in transition, and find open shooters. With Sabonis operating as a skilled big and LaVine drawing defensive attention, Simmons wouldn’t be relied upon to score, freeing him to focus on his strengths.
On defense, Simmons would immediately become one of Sacramento’s most impactful players. His ability to guard positions one through four, disrupt passing lanes, and switch across matchups could give the Kings much-needed versatility. Rebounding is another area where Simmons could help; his size and instincts allow him to clean the glass and ignite the fast break. Offensively, he could serve as a secondary ball-handler, creating easier looks for LaVine, Keegan Murray, and Schröder without needing the ball constantly in his hands. In pick-and-roll situations, Simmons could be used both as a ball-handler and a short-roll facilitator, depending on the matchup.
However, Simmons’ flaws still matter. His shooting remains a significant weakness, and teams will continue to go under screens and crowd the paint against him. That said, with improved spacing around him, especially with LaVine on the wing and Sabonis drawing defenders to the post, there’s room to mask those limitations creatively. The bigger question is whether Simmons is physically healthy and mentally prepared to take on a new role. He can no longer expect to be a franchise cornerstone; instead, his value lies in how well he can support others and commit to doing the dirty work.
If Simmons is willing to buy in, the Kings could be the ideal place for him to revive his career. His skill set addresses real needs on this roster, including defense, rebounding, and playmaking, and he’d be surrounded by scorers who allow him to focus on those areas. For Sacramento, it’s a low-risk move with potential for real impact. For Simmons, it’s a chance to prove he still belongs and to rebuild his reputation as a winning player. The talent is still there; it just needs the right fit and the right mindset to shine again.
