Philadelphia 76ers: The Last Dance – The Process Sixers

Episode VII

CURIOUS CASE OF MARKELLE FULTZ’S SHOULDER

Just when things couldn’t get any stranger, a mysterious shoulder injury would project another dramatic spotlight on the exhausting Sixers. Scouts around the league projected Washington Huskies standout Markelle Fultz to be drafted No. 1. Unlike the prior year though, the 76ers did not have the first pick. The Boston Celtics tucked that golden egg snugly in their basket.

Of course, Danny Ainge would listen to any offers for their pick, so when Bryan Colangelo called, talks led to a move that would have a lasting impact. After trading away their No. 3 pick and a future first-round pick, the Sixers felt they would pick Ben Simmons’ backcourt mate for the future. They could not have been more wrong.

After a decent summer league performance, Fultz showed flashes of why he was expected to be a dynamic NBA-ready guard. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, his jumpshot disappeared. Whether it was an injury, the yips, or an odd tweak to his shooting form, Fultz struggled to not only stay in rotation for minutes, but to stay out of the national media’s fire pit.

For every highlight of his crooked shooting form or unorthodox free throw routine, logs were fueling that fire to the point he would shut down. Even veteran temmate J.J. Redick had to come to Fultz’s defense in an interview, emphasizing the pressure Fultz had on him being only 19 years old. He’d get through his rookie season enough to regroup and attempt to resurrect his image, but the drama never left.

Being young, every player needs guidance off the court. It is a no-brainer. Family and friends try to protect NBA rookies from potential hazards. Yet, when a leash is too tight around the neck, things get unbearable. Fultz’s tenuous relationship with his overprotective mother brought even more strife as he meandered throughout his sophomore season.

The drama in Philly would end unceremoniously with a trade to the Orlando Magic. Markelle Fultz would leave behind the scrutiny of a big city like Philadelphia and enter a market known more for its Disney attractions. The split would be necessary for both the team and player. The 76ers were headed for another playoff run, while Fultz just needed to be anywhere but near an NBA game. The phantom shoulder injury of Markelle Fultz will go down as one of the most infamous events in 76ers history.