Simmons' Achilles tear ends Kings’ comeback hopes
Ben Simmons suffered a torn Achilles in practice days before the NBA season opener, ruling him out for the entire 2026‑27 campaign after signing a one‑year contract with the Sacramento Kings.
By LAS News Desk · Published 19 Oct 2026, 01:45 WAT
Injury sidelines Simmons for the season During a live drill in pre‑season training, Ben Simmons tore his right Achilles tendon, according to a Kings statement. The 30‑year‑old will undergo surgery and is expected to miss the entire NBA season.
A promising return halted Simmons had signed a one‑year deal with the Sacramento Kings last month and had shown encouraging signs in the team’s pre‑season games. His performance had suggested a potential resurgence after a season‑long absence from the league.
Career marred by injuries Over the past five years, Simmons’ durability has steadily declined. After playing 81 of 82 games in his rookie season, he has not appeared in more than 60 regular‑season games since 2018‑19, and only 50 in the 2024‑25 season with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers.
Past achievements Before his injury struggles, Simmons was a three‑time NBA All‑Star and was regarded as one of the league’s premier defensive players.
Kings’ season opener Sacramento will open the 2026‑27 season against the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday morning, with Simmons out of the lineup.
Outlook The Kings will need to adjust their roster and rotation plans without Simmons, who had been expected to contribute significantly after his return to the NBA.
Sources
- Brutal injury derails Simmons's latest NBA comeback attempt — ABC Australia World
Spotted an error? Report a correction · Corrections policy
More in World
Trump publicly backs Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s October 27 election
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a full endorsement of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, arriving just weeks before Israel’s parliamentary vote. The move comes amid a tight race and a backdrop of recent conflict with Iran and the Hamas attack.
LAS News Desk · 19 Oct 2026, 03:15 WAT · 6 sources
Flydubai captain recounts axe attack that sent plane 16,000ft into descent
Captain Smit Machchhar described how he blocked axe blows, freed himself and opened the cockpit door after a co‑pilot attempted to crash flight FZ1073 into Ben Gurion Airport, a plot prosecutors say was inspired by the 9/11 attacks.
LAS News Desk · 19 Oct 2026, 03:15 WAT · 5 sources
Limoges historic town hall damaged by fire amid nationwide protests
A 19th‑century town hall in Limoges was set ablaze during France's recent cost‑of‑living protests, with its clock‑tower spire collapsing and the roof partially giving way. Authorities linked the blaze to fringe elements and announced arrests and prosecutions.
LAS News Desk · 19 Oct 2026, 01:45 WAT · 5 sources