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In one of this offseason’s most significant moves, the Sacramento Kings signed Ben Simmons to a one-year, $3.5 million deal, marking the return of the three-time All-Star after an entire season away from the game. With the Kings adding the 30-year-old to their roster, Sacramento is bound to garner considerable attention next season. Ben Simmons’ signing is noteworthy for several reasons. While his impact as a player is currently in doubt, primarily because of injury history, many have pointed to his role on the Kings’ roster and how he could be a contributor. For the most part, Simmons has been viewed as a role player over the last few years of his career. However, while noting the guard’s potential on “The Aussie Hoops Tour,” former NBA player Richard Jefferson claimed that Ben Simmons possesses the talent to be an All-Star in the upcoming season. “I think you should have no expectations,” Jefferson began. “Not of his playing. But basketball, like many other sports, as much as it is physical, it is mental. Ben has always had the talent. Ben has the talent to be an All-Star this year; if Ben goes and has the best season, he’s healthy.” “[If] his back is right. He has the talent to be an all-defensive player, to be a DPOY-level talent because he can guard one through five positions. And then there’s just his ability to play. But for Ben, there’s a mental aspect that’s a big part of the game. And so for me, I think some of his struggles were physical; some of them became mental. And I root for every player. I want Ben to get back to the love and joy that he has for the game because that lowers the mental stress.” For the most part, Jefferson seems to be happy to see Ben Simmons return to the NBA after his brief time away. While this extended leave has helped him physically, with sources claiming that Simmons has returned to full strength, Jefferson emphasizes the importance of the mental aspect more. For the most part, it is difficult to argue with Richard Jefferson’s claim. Although the talent pool in both conferences is immensely deep, Ben Simmons’ defensive versatility, playmaking ability, and sheer athleticism would make him one of the most exciting players on the floor if he plays up to his potential. On that note, the Kings have already received a promising update regarding the guard’s mental state. Simmons’ godfather recently mentioned that, aside from regaining his fitness, the 30-year-old has been building his confidence back up, shooting from the perimeter in practice with no concern about making the shot. While the three-point shot will not be a part of his offensive repertoire, this update has been reassuring. Although fans have good reason to be excited about Ben Simmons’ NBA comeback, given his career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, they may need to manage expectations. According to a recent update on Simmons’ contract, the Kings’ latest addition is on a non-guaranteed deal. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto shed light on this, stating: “Update: Ben Simmons has signed a one-year, non-guaranteed deal worth up to $3.5 million with the Sacramento Kings, per sources. If he makes the opening night roster, he’ll earn $1 million. The 30-year-old, three-time All-Star is making an NBA comeback. ESPN was first on an agreement.” While the details of his contract were reported earlier, the latest update suggests that Simmons’ place on the roster is still up for grabs. Hence, with another challenge presenting itself, Kings fans can only hope the three-time All-Star makes it through training camp and secures a roster spot ahead of the new campaign.