Ben Simmons has been a semi-popular name this offseason, but not for reasons that Philadelphia Sixers fans once hoped for. Whether he'll retire or not has been a topic of conversation, overshadowing another former Sixers No. 1 pick who could also be out of the NBA — Markelle Fultz.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 draft spent two seasons in Philadelphia, playing a combined 33 games. The Sixers traded Fultz to the Magic in 2019, a couple of months after he last played due to thoracic outlet syndrome. He didn't make his Orlando debut until the following season, which turned out to be one of his best seasons in the league.
Fultz stuck around with the Magic through the 2023-24 season, but didn't sign with another team until after the February 2025 deadline. The Kings traded De'Aaron Fox to the Spurs, and needed another point guard, so they landed on Fultz. He averaged 2.9 points and 1.0 rebounds per game in 21 contests in Sacramento.
The 27-year-old entered the offseason as a free agent, and, like Simmons, is still unsigned. However, unlike Simmons, Fultz hasn't garnered interest from teams. He might've already played his game in the NBA.
Former Sixers No. 1 pick Markelle Fultz is still a free agent
The Kings addressed their need for a new starting point guard this summer by acquiring Dennis Schröder, signing him to a three-year deal. They've also expressed interest in signing Russell Westbrook, which should give you an idea of how they feel about bringing Fultz back.
It's unfortunate to see his career pan out the way it has, with injuries spoiling his time in Philadelphia, a trend that has continued throughout his career. The Sixers thought he'd be the final piece to their championship team, trading up in the draft to select Fultz. Fans don't need the reminder, but Philly could've had Jayson Tatum, Lonzo Ball, or Fox, who all went in the top five of that year's draft.
It says a lot that Fultz was able to stay in Orlando for several years after how his first couple of seasons went in Philadelphia. When you think of Fultz, though, even as a non-Sixers fan (excluding some Magic fans), you think about what he went through with the Sixers. It was such a bizarre situation that ended far sooner than anyone ever thought.
Hopefully, Fultz's time in the NBA isn't over, but after what's been a long offseason, it's looking like it might be.