Ben Simmons Expected to Start for the Kings, Because the NBA Offseason is a Flat Circle

The Sacramento Kings are reportedly handing the starting point guard keys to Ben Simmons to open the regular season, proving that the NBA's most exhausting comeback arc is officially back on.

According to a report from Spears relayed by Underdog NBA, Simmons has secured a starting-five spot. If you had Ben Simmons starting in 2026 on your bingo card, congratulations, you are either a visionary or a glutton for punishment.

"Spears: Ben Simmons expected to be in Kings starting lineup to begin the regular season."

Simmons is currently listed as fully healthy, which is a minor miracle in itself given his recent history of back issues and extended absences. He joins a Sacramento squad trying to figure out its rotation after dropping three straight preseason games, giving up 127 and 114 points to the Los Angeles Lakers before falling 111-106 to the Golden State Warriors.

Putting Simmons in the starting lineup is the kind of move that sounds great in a vacuum until you remember the half-court spacing issues. It is the basketball equivalent of buying a vintage sports car that looks incredible in the driveway but stalls every time you try to merge onto the highway.

For the fantasy managers and prop bettors out there, this completely scrambles the board. A starting role means guaranteed minutes, which makes his rebound and assist totals suddenly very relevant, even if his point totals remain a complete mystery.

The Kings host the Portland Trail Blazers on October 14 for their next matchup. We will soon see if this starting nod is a genuine career revival or just another preseason mirage before the real games begin.