Philadelphia 76ers don’t need the trade or buyout market to make the Finals
By Jack Duffy
Markelle Fultz
Yes, Markelle Fultz. Everyone is either completely done with Markelle and wants him traded or like me, will believe Markelle has star potential until the day Fultz retires. Fultz is now back with the team doing physical therapy as he recovers from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. The timetable for his return is unknown.
Every Sixers fan loves T.J. McConnell for many reasons, like his gritty play, diving for loose balls, aggressive on-ball defense, and the underdog mentality he has carried with him throughout his career. But many will admit that T.J. has his limitations both offensively and defensively. His aggressive defense looks good at times but he is also exposed and scored on by opponents. If Markelle can return to the court and play he could take back those minutes from T.J. and give the team a more versatile guard off the bench.
T.J. McConnell only shoots from about 14 feet and in and is not a threat from the perimeter at all. Fultz, even back before he took time away to rehab his shoulder, could expand his range further than T.J.
We all assume Fultz will come back and have a more fluid and improved jumper. If that is the case, that is an immediate upgrade for the Sixers backup guard spot. Fultz has the better defensive body to guard multiple positions, is more athletic, and can offer more on offense from his playmaking, athleticism, crafty finishes and his mid-range game (and hopefully some from three).
The team has a need for an upgrade (I love you T.J.) at the backup point guard spot and Markelle Fultz has the ability to fill that spot and excel throughout the rest of the season.