The Orlando Magic took a shot in the dark by trading for an injury-laden Markelle Fultz last season, then gambled again after picking up Fultz’ $12.3 million option for next season, despite having yet to play a single game for the organization. Though it looks like their gamble has paid off so far, as Fultz has shown explosive moves to the basket, savvy playmaking, and most importantly the ability to shoot the ball comfortably after dealing with thoracic outlet syndrome for the better part of his first two seasons in the league.
“He still has shoulder soreness from time to time, and he still has some issues with his knee,” said head coach Steve Clifford, referring in the latter case to an injury Fultz had in college, according to Marc Stein of The New York Times. “But from the day he’s gotten here, he’s worked.”
Fultz had a lot of hype to live up to prior to his major injury, as the Philadelphia 76ers traded their No. 3 overall pick in 2017 to go up to the first overall selection, which they used to draft him. What ensued was a share of disappointments and media debacles regarding his condition.
The Sixers bailed after one-and-a-half seasons with him, and the Magic pounced on that opportunity.
“It’s all working together,” said Clifford. “As he’s getting better physically, his game is coming back to him.”
Fultz won't go about grading his shot or any other element of his repertoire, but prefers to keep is simple after a nightmarish past two seasons: “My goal is just to play this game.”
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