Ben Simmons defends Zach LaVine after Kings media day hot mic

The veteran guard is on a one-year Sacramento deal.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 2h1 min read

Ben Simmons came to Zach LaVine's defense after viral hot mic audio at Kings' media day 👀 See more on the situation her Via @BleacherReport on X

What happened: The Kings' media day fallout carried into camp when Simmons publicly backed LaVine after viral hot mic audio The episode pulled two of Sacramento's highest-profile players into an avoidable preseason distraction.

Why it matters: The noise lands as Sacramento tries to settle roles and tone before the 2026-27 season opens. It also keeps focus on Simmons, whose comeback has already been one of the team's main storylines this fall.

By the numbers: LaVine exercised a $49 million player option for 2026-27, and Simmons entered camp on a one-year deal after a yearlong hiatus.

What to watch: The next public camp sessions will show whether the issue fades quickly or lingers around the Kings into preseason action. Any further comments from Simmons or LaVine would add to the temperature around the roster.

Sources

@BleacherReport 2026-10-03T11:58:29.626602+00:00

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