NBA Trade Rumors: Philadephia 76ers split on trading Markelle Fultz
What's the rumour?
Markelle Fultz has been linked with a trade to both the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers in recent days. It was also widely believed that the 76ers were willing to trade the 20-year-old away, although Keith Pompey from Philly is reporting that this is not the case:
The team is in no rush to trade Fultz. A lot of that has to do with his dwindling trade value combined with the ownership group’s philosophy of not giving up assets for zilch. The ownership group also isn’t in total agreement with what do with Fultz
In case you didn't know...
Markelle Fultz was the number one pick of the 2017 draft, although he struggled with injuries in his debut season. The point guard played in just 14 games, averaging 7.1 points, 3.8 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game. Fultz's shooting ability also came under much criticism, as he failed to score from behind the arc, and shot just .476 from the free-throw line.
The 20-year-old has managed to increase his field goal percentage to .419 this season, however, the player's injury issues have continued, and Fultz is set to miss at least the next three weeks through injury.
The heart of the matter
The Philadelphia 76ers have been fine in the absence of Markelle Fultz, and it seems that the franchise is looking to build around Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, rather than their 2017 draft pick. Fultz himself looks lost in Philadelphia, and a trade would give the youngster a fresh start
What's Next?
The 76ers will tonight play the struggling Cleveland Cavaliers, as they look to end a run of two consecutive defeats.
Let us know in the comments below if you believe the Philadelphia 76ers should trade away Markelle Fultz. Also visit our dedicated basketball section for the latest news, rumors, and analysis.