Sixers ship former No. 1 pick Fultz to Magic
Tracy McGrady says he’s pleased to hear about Markelle Fultz’s trade to the Magic. (1:42)
The Philadelphia 76ers traded 2017 No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz to the Orlando Magic on Thursday.
Fultz bid Philly and its fans farewell in a tweet shortly after the deal was announced.
Thank you to my teammates, Sixers Fans, the organization, and all those who have supported me as I rehab from TOS.
I wish the sixers and the fans well as they pursue a championship. pic.twitter.com/nn2MIV6HGX
The Magic sent forward Jonathon Simmons, a protected 2020 first-round pick (via Oklahoma City) and a 2019 second-round pick to the Sixers.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Markelle [Fultz] to the Magic family,” Jeff Weltman, Orlando president of basketball operations, said in a statement. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to add a former #1 overall draft pick to our roster and to add depth to our backcourt. We will provide Markelle with the best possible support at his own pace and look forward to his future contributions.”
Can Fultz be the answer at point guard in Orlando? Kevin Pelton grades the move.
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Fultz has been sidelined since Nov. 19 after being diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition that affects the nerves between the neck and shoulder.
Fultz’s agent, Raymond Brothers, had told ESPN on Christmas Day that his client is progressing well in rehabilitation on his right shoulder and that he expects Fultz to return to the team this season.
“We want to make sure he’s 100 percent and healthy when he does come back,” Brothers said.
The point guard is averaging 8.2 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 19 games this season. He has played in only 33 games total in his two NBA seasons.
Simmons is averaging 6.9 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 41 games this season.