Markelle Fultz’s mission to revitalize his career in Orlando was hit Wednesday night when he tore his left ACL and drove to the basket in a 105-94 win over the Cavaliers.
Fultz sustained the injury in the first quarter while trying to find a place to shoot in the lane. He will miss the rest of the 2020-21 season.
The 22-year-old, who was voted number 1 overall by the 76ers in the 2017 NBA draft, had on average achieved the best numbers of his career in his first seven games. His scoring average (14.3) and assist average (6.1) were higher than ever, and he ended up shooting over 80 percent off the line after shooting 53.4 percent off the streak in his first two professional campaigns .
In addition to ACL setback, Fultz has dealt with shoulder problems throughout his career which have been used to explain his underperforming jumper.
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Philadelphia traded Fultz for Jonathon Simmons and a pair of draft picks for Magic two years ago – an easy return after the 76ers surrendered the opportunity to pick Jayson Tatum to pick him.
Fultz apparently benefited from both the scene change and a more patient fan base. However, its progress will be put on hold for the foreseeable future.
