Orlando Magic president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman says he won't put “expectations or timelines” on Markelle Fultz's development.
Weltman wants to remind everyone that Fultz has not played in more than 20 games in each of his first two seasons and has been through two serious shoulder injuries at a young age.
“It’s really important: Markelle just turned 21,” Weltman said, via Josh Robbins of The Athletic. “You guys saw the work that he’s put in, and he’s shooting the ball freely. He’s in a really good place. I hope our fans are really excited to see this; this is why we’re doing this (opening this workout to the media).
“And, also, we are going to remain patient and we’re not going to put expectations or timelines on his development. He hasn’t played basketball in a year. He’s played 33 games total in his career, so it’s going to unfold the way it unfolds, as we always say with all of our young guys.”
The Magic acquired Markelle Fultz from the Philadelphia 76ers at the 2019 February trade deadline. He has career NBA averages of 7.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting 41.4 percent from the field, 26.7 percent from beyond the arc and 53.4 percent from the free-throw line.
Fultz has only played in 33 NBA games due to scapular muscle imbalance in his right shoulder and Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. The Magic are no doubt excited that Fultz is cleared to play again, but the franchise is still going to take baby steps with the former No. 1 overall pick.
Follow Us
Subscribe