SACRAMENTO, CA – Sacramento Kings were excited to enter the 2026-27 regular-season injury-free but then they got some bad news Sunday.

Recently signed forward Ben Simmons sustained a torn Achilles during practice on Sunday, Oct. 18, a person with direct knowledge of the injury told USA TODAY Sports. The person requested anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the situation publicly.

ESPN first reported the injury and said that the severity is believed be a season-ending injury for Simmons.

Simmons had an anticipated returns to an NBA roster after signing with the Kings filling out their final open spot, a source close to the team confirmed to USA TODAY Sports. Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Kings, according to ESPN.

Simmons has missed time throughout his career due to chronic back problems and a series of leg injuries. He took time off last year, missing the entire 2025-26 season to rehabilitate his body from his lingering injuries. He's battled through physical and mental adversity throughout his career.

There were shades of Simmons looking like his former self during the Kings preseason games. Simmons averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game in the preseason.

He was projected to make his way into the starting lineup, playing alongside Darius Acuff, Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray and Zach LaVine. However, he won't be back on the court in the immediate future.