Sabonis Keeps Pushing Forward Despite Simmons' Injury

The Sacramento Kings faced an unexpected setback in the first games of the 2026-27 NBA season. Newly signed guard Ben Simmons will miss the rest of the season due to a torn right Achilles tendon. The 30-year-old underwent surgery successfully, but this injury, which came right after his return to the NBA, upended the team's plans.

Speaking after Thursday's practice, Lithuanian forward Domantas Sabonis said the situation was difficult. "It's definitely tough. We love Ben. We wish him the best. He was going to be a big part of our group this year. But we need to come together and get through this quickly. The season has only just started," he said.

The Kings began their 82-game schedule on Wednesday at Intuit Dome and lost to the Los Angeles Clippers. Sabonis led his team with 14 points, 18 rebounds and 8 assists in that game. He was flawless from the field and the free throw line. The 30-year-old, who could only play in 19 games last season due to injuries, showed with this performance that his form is good.

The team's focus now turns to the home opener at Golden 1 Center on Friday. A three-time All-Star, Sabonis said he is looking forward to the excitement of playing in front of the fans again. The Lithuanian is playing his eleventh NBA season. After stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, he was traded to the Kings in the middle of the 2021-22 season.