Ben Simmons Named Sacramento Kings Starting Point Guard for Season Opener

Ben Simmons will start at point guard for the Sacramento Kings in their 2026-27 season opener against the Los Angeles Clippers, head coach Doug Christie confirmed. The decision follows a strong preseason performance by the veteran guard, who signed a non-guaranteed contract with the franchise after testing free agency.

Sacramento Kings Confirm Starting Lineup for Opening Night

Head coach Doug Christie expressed strong satisfaction with Ben Simmons’s progress during training camp and preseason games, leading to a prominent role in the team’s backcourt. Simmons will share the initial backcourt duties with rookie Darius Acuff Jr., according to team announcements. The opening night starting five also features shooting guard Zach LaVine, forward Keegan Murray, and center Domantas Sabonis.

Simmons secured his roster spot after joining the Kings on a one-year, non-guaranteed deal. While several organizations monitored his availability in free agency—including the Golden State Warriors and the New York Knicks—Sacramento proved to be the only franchise to extend an official contract offer. The Australian guard accepted the terms, betting on himself to earn consistent minutes under Christie’s coaching staff.

Preseason Performance Secures Roster Spot

The decision to name Simmons a starter follows a brief but efficient showing in the preseason. During a 111-106 preseason loss to the Golden State Warriors, Simmons recorded 7 points, 1 assist, 2 personal fouls, and a plus-minus of 0 in just 8 minutes and 54 seconds of floor time. He shot 2-of-4 from the field and converted 3-of-4 free throw attempts while playing exclusively in the opening quarter.

Ben Simmons full FOOTAGE vs. Golden State Warriors (111-106 L) – preseason: 7 Points on 2/4 FG, 3/4 from the line, 1 Assist (2 TOV), 2 PF, and a +/- of 0 in 8:54 minutes played. He played only in the 1st quarter. I also posted it on YouTube: https://t.co/Gd0GFDMYlU pic.twitter.com/Va2AOmDaE7

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) October 11, 2026

That initial outing provided the technical staff with the necessary data to evaluate his fitness and tactical fit alongside the core rotation. Despite limited minutes, his ability to manage the tempo and facilitate ball movement convinced leadership to grant him a fresh start in the league after an extended period of scrutiny regarding his health and availability.

Backcourt Dynamics With Darius Acuff Jr.

Pairing Simmons with rookie Darius Acuff Jr. creates an intriguing backcourt combination for Sacramento as the 2026-27 campaign tips off. Christie’s reliance on a playmaking guard alongside a dynamic newcomer signals an up-tempo tactical approach, supported by established frontcourt scorers like LaVine, Murray, and Sabonis.

The Kings open their regular-season schedule against the Los Angeles Clippers, marking the official return of Simmons to a primary starting role on a competitive Western Conference roster.