Philadelphia 76ers rookie and overall number one pick Markelle Fultz will not be in the starting line-up when the team’s season officially begins at the Washington Wizards on Thursday.
Sixers coach Brett Brown stated that the reasoning behind the move was because Fultz did not get much time on the court during pre-season. This means that it is likely that veteran Jerryd Bayless will start ahead of the rookie, who in time might ease into more minutes leading to a place in the starting five.
Brown's plan is for Fultz to come off the bench to start the season. Pointed to the fact Fultz didn't played much in preseason.
— Jessica Camerato (@JCameratoNBCS) October 15, 2017
Brett Brown on Markelle Fultz: pic.twitter.com/j23edCCVdO
— Jessica Camerato (@JCameratoNBCS) October 15, 2017
Fultz has struggled with injuries over the off-season, most notably an ankle injury that he sustained during this year’s NBA Summer League.
Despite dropping to the bench though, Fultz is expected to be one of the most notable and stat-leading rookies this season, along with number two pick Lonzo Ball of the Los Angeles Lakers.
I am more excited about what Ben Simmons could do. All eyes on Philadelphia this year.
Jessica Camerato tweeted @ 15 Oct 2017 - 15:47 UTC
Jessica Camerato tweeted @ 15 Oct 2017 - 16:54 UTC
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