We’re almost four years removed from the Philadelphia 76ers trading Markelle Fultz to the Orlando Magic following a disappointing start to his career. His tenure in Philly was plagued with criticism due to poor shooting stemming from a rare arm injury, and the guard was sidelined nearly 14 months after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee in 2021.
The former No. 1 pick was considered a bust and blamed for ruining The Process in Philadelphia. Now, Fultz is away from the spotlight in Orlando and is allowed to progress on a team with no expectations. And he’s been doing that really well this season.
This year’s frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, Paolo Banchero, has been getting most of the attention in Orlando, and rightfully so. But it’s hard not to acknowledge the strides Fultz is making to finally becoming a productive NBA player.
