Former number one overall pick Markelle Fultz is reportedly not in the 76ers future. After missing almost all of last season with a shoulder injury, Fultz finally came back. This season, he started to make a comeback, as he adjusted his shot form and even made a few threes.
However, Fultz has been diagnosed with a wrist injury and is missing practices in order to seek a second opinion from a shoulder specialist. While the 76ers are not actively shipping Fultz, they are open to trading him and would save 9.6 million dollars, money they could use to try and resign Jimmy Butler, who they recently acquired. Here are a list of a few teams that could potentially try and trade for Fultz.
1. Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have a tricky point guard situation, as all-star Kemba Walker is in a contract season, and is not expected to resign this offseason. Their backup point guard, veteran Tony Parker, is 36 years old and could very possibly retire this year. The Hornets might give up a 2020 second rounder to trade for Fultz, and hopefully get some stability at the position.
2. Memphis Grizzlies
Behind underrated point guard Mike Conley, the Grizzlies do not have much talent. Shelvin Mack, their backup is averaging just 10 points and 2 assists, and shooting just 48% from the field. Markelle Fultz would give the Grizzlies a solid point guard and it would be marvelous for them if they can tap into Fultz's full potential. The price for him would be about the same as what Charlotte would give up.
3. Orlando Magic
The Magic probably have the worst point guard situation in the entire NBA. Last year, their assists leader was DJ Augustin, with 3.8. Also, Augustin is 31 years old and is not playing his best basketball. Fultz would be able to showcase his play making abilities in Orlando, and might provide as a good compliment to rookie Mo Bamba.
Fultz, however, is more likely to stay than not, as not too many teams would like to take an injury prone player who takes up 9.6 million dollars in cap space. If a team can harness his full abilities, Fultz could be extremely special to that teams franchise.
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