Last week, former #1 overall pick Markelle Fultz was dealt to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Jonathon Simmons, a protected first round draft pick (via Oklahoma City), and a second round draft pick (via Cleveland). This trade officially concluded the Fultz era in Philly.
Much speculation surrounded Fultz regarding his future with the Sixers’ organization this year. Fultz has played just 19 games this season, posting a pedestrian 8.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists over 22.5 minutes per game. It was uncovered by Fultz’s agent, Raymond Brothers, that Fultz had been diagnosed with Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). TOS is a term used to describe a group of disorders that occur when there is compression, injury or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the lower neck and upper chest area.
Fultz was highly touted out of the University of Washington, and was once thought to be the third cornerstone piece of the Sixers’ organization. Fultz had shown flashes of greatness when he became the youngest person in NBA history to post a triple-double during his rookie season.
What does the future hold?
While Fultz’s time has come to an end, hopefully this new environment in Orlando can help bring back this once great prospect. Fultz joins a fairly young Magic team that includes rookie Mo Bamba and former #4 overall pick Aaron Gordon. Orlando can still be considered in the rebuilding stage, so the gamble for Fultz is low risk-high reward acquisition.
Fans, however, may have to wait a little longer before they see Fultz hit the hardwood this season. When Fultz was first diagnosed with TOS in November of 2018, he has yet to return to the floor, and the Magic should be in no hurry to rush him back.
Should the Sixers have given up on Fultz despite him being only in his sophomore season? Could we see him flourish despite injury like Derrick Rose in Minnesota? Or has Fultz been relegated to a “Bust”? Comment below.
