Ben Simmons Faces Major Setback with Torn Achilles: What This Means for His Season

Ben Simmons has encountered a significant hurdle as he tore his Achilles tendon on Sunday, days prior to the start of the NBA regular season. This injury occurred during a live practice drill with the Sacramento Kings, where he had participated in only two preseason games.

The Kings confirmed via an MRI that Simmons, a 30-year-old three-time All-Star, will need surgery to repair the injury. This unfortunate development arises just three days before the Kings are set to compete against the Los Angeles Clippers, disrupting Simmons’ much-anticipated comeback after missing the entire 2025-26 season due to chronic back and leg issues.

Considering the typical recovery timelines for such injuries, Simmons’ return this season is deemed improbable. Historical data shows the fastest recoveries in the NBA, with players like Wesley Matthews returning in approximately seven months, but such recoveries are rare.

Simmons expressed his emotional response to the injury on Instagram, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity. Although he recently signed a one-year contract worth $3.5 million with the Kings, he will continue to receive his salary despite this setback.