Markelle Fultz provided an update on his recovery process Wednesday as he deals with a shoulder injury that has hindered the beginning of his NBA career.
The newly-acquired Magic guard explained to The Athletic that his recovery is "going great" as he's reached a new stage in the process. He spent the last few months rehabilitating in Southern California, but has since relocated to Orlando to continue his rehab.
“I think it’s what’s best for me and the team,” Fultz said. “(It’s beneficial) just being around these guys, so they see my face and I see their face. I’m going to learn as much as I can. As we make this push for the playoffs, I want to be here with my guys and just support them.”
There isn't a clear timetable for the 20-year-old guard's return and he hasn't been practicing with the team, but he will be in attendance for Magic's practices and games. Coach Steve Clifford said earlier this week, "It’s just good to have him around.”
Fultz was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome and explained he has been working toward shooting without pain.
“I’m definitely getting better each and every day,” Fultz said. “That’s what a lot of people didn’t know about TOS: It’s very tricky, and the pain is different for different people. But that’s what I’m working on now in rehab: just getting better each and every day. And the progression that I’m making is very good.”
Fultz was traded from the 76ers to the Magic in February in return for guard Jonathon Simmons, a protected first-round pick and a second-round pick in the 2019 draft. Fultz was selected by Philadelphia with the No. 1 overall pick out of the 2017 draft, but has appeared in just 33 games over his first two seasons in the NBA.
