Overview
- Simmons signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Sacramento Kings after Sacramento was the only team to attend his August workout in Miami.
- During a preseason game on Oct. 10, Simmons told coach Steve Kerr, “Y’all didn’t want me?” and Kerr replied, “I didn’t know if you were healthy,” an exchange Simmons later recounted to reporters.
- Simmons also told Stephen Curry, “I told you. I’m ready,” after the Oct. 10 game, reflecting the public nature of his push to prove his health to other teams.
- The comeback ended when Simmons tore his right Achilles in a practice drill on Oct. 18, a season-ending injury that halted the momentum he showed in preseason play.
- The episode highlights how teams use in-person visits, scouting trips, and medical evaluations to manage risk, and it leaves open questions about how franchises will balance cautious vetting with opportunities for injured veterans and how Simmons’ rehab will shape his next contract chances.