Philadelphia 76ers: 3 takeaways from win over Chicago Bulls in home opener

1. Markelle Fultz hit a 3, but remains tentative

Last night was a big step in the right direction for Fultz. He’s still a work in progress — tentative as a shooter and often indecisive with the basketball. But hitting his first career three-pointer, with the crowd firmly in support, has to feel good after a long summer in the gym.

In the first half, the Bulls were ignoring Fultz on defense, allowing him to sit in the corner while Cameron Payne hovered around the paint. There were several wide-open shots that Fultz passed up, either dribbling inside or dumping it off to a teammate.

In the second half — and especially in the fourth quarter — things opened up a bit. He ended up taking 15 shots, which led the Sixers. Even if the efficiency is subpar, just mustering the confidence to attempt those shots is an important step in Fultz’s progression.

Fultz was 1-3 from deep, but that includes a (narrowly missed) halfcourt heave. His second attempt, which came after the make, was a fluid spot-up jumper that looked natural. The ability to shoot is there.

As the season continues, the Sixers need to stick with Fultz. He needs the freedom to work through growing pains and get comfortable with the Sixers’ offense. Utilizing him in important games is tricky, but Fultz has the talent to transform the Sixers’ ceiling.

The best thing Brett Brown and Co. can do is give Fultz the room to reach that level.