Simmons' Passing Expertise Could Benefit Kings Rookie Acuff
The Sacramento Kings are considering adding Ben Simmons as a veteran guard, and one skill he could mentor rookie Darius Acuff Jr. in is elite passing. Simmons' ability to set up teammates is highlighted, even though his career has been inconsistent. The Kings need a veteran point guard to mentor Acuff, who is currently the only true point guard on the roster.
The Kings' roster currently lacks a traditional floor general beyond Acuff, with Malik Monk and Emanuel Sharp both fitting better as scoring guards. This roster imbalance reportedly drove the front office's search for a veteran playmaker during the late free-agent period. Simmons, despite sitting out last season, averaged 7.2 assists per game across his seven-year career, a figure that reflects his elite vision even as his scoring declined.
Acuff showcased advanced court vision during Summer League, frequently finding teammates a step ahead of the defense. Pairing him with a passer of Simmons' pedigree could accelerate his development as a playmaker, while also giving Sacramento a consistent table-setter on the floor—a role the team reportedly lacked during the previous season.
This signing could shape how young guards develop in the NBA, as teams increasingly weigh mentorship value against on-court production. If Simmons helps Acuff refine his passing, the Kings may benefit from a more balanced offense, potentially improving their playoff positioning. However, Simmons' inconsistent availability could limit his impact, leaving Acuff without the steady veteran presence the front office sought. The decision may also influence how other franchises approach late free-agent additions, prioritizing skill transfer over locker-room stability.