Simmons has a non-guaranteed deal for this season, with $1 million in protection if he is on the roster on opening night. But despite his season-ending Achilles tear, the Kings probably should hold off before waiving him. The reason is the salary continuation rule, which states that injured players on non-guaranteed contracts must continue to be paid until they are healthy again. (Notably, this protection does not apply to players who sign training camp contracts – also referred to as Exhibit 9 or Exhibit 10 deals, which are only protected up to $15,000. But Simmons didn't sign that type of contract.) As a result, the Kings will have a $2.45 million salary for Simmons on their books all year regardless of whether they waive him. Because of that, don't be surprised if the Kings keep him on the roster and look to use his deal in a trade. the Kings, incidentally, are $3.1 million below the tax line, enough room that they could sign another player in the meantime to fill their open 15th roster spot.
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Kings may keep Ben Simmons after injury