NBA Rumors: Fultz Shows Hops Against Former Team; Outside Shot Still Missing

There is a reason why Markelle Fultz was the top pick of the 2017 NBA Draft. The Philadelphia 76ers saw something in him but it appears they grew impatient. A prime reason is he does not have a decent jump shot. The 21-year-old guard had a good showing for his new team, the Orlando Magic recently. However, it remains that he still does not have a reliable outside shot.

Facing his former team, Fultz had an impressive showing. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the 6-foot-4 guard finished with 12 points, five assists, one rebound, and two steals. It would be best to note that most of his points came from layups. He was 5-for-11 from the field and shot only 1 of 4 outside the shaded lane.

The Magic lost that preseason encounter to the Sixers, 126-94. However, seeing Fultz back in action is a good sign. Now, all he needs to do is figure out a way to develop a decent outside shot. Regardless, he drew praises from his former coach, Brett Brown.

“It was fantastic to play at, I think, a high level. We are always following him. We wish him well, and it’s good to see him back on a basketball court and playing well,” said Brown.

It back in December when Fultz' agent, Raymond Brothers, claimed that an injury was preventing his client from shooting properly. Fultz was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome and this relegated him to the sidelines. He was never seen on the basketball court until now.

“Everything is going a hell of a lot better as far as my shoulder [and] me getting in better shape,” Fultz said. “Everything is going good.”

After getting traded last February, all Fultz wants is a fresh start. He showed glimpses of what he can do. Former teammates such as Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons lauded him for his performance.

“I’m happy for him. Super happy,” Simmons of Fultz, who is trying to rejuvenate his career in Orlando. "That’s my guy. That’s my little brother. So I’m just happy he’s out there playing and doing what he loves," said Simmons who has shooting problems of his own.

The preseason is one thing but the regular NBA games are another. Fultz needs to do more if he wants to prove that he truly belongs in the NBA. He did reach out to Kobe Bryant for help as covered in a previous post. Now he is hoping that it all pays off.