76ers interested in reunion with former No. 1 pick?

The Philadelphia 76ers are in need of a final guard to complete their backcourt ahead of next season, and a reunion with Markelle Fultz is within the realm of possibilities.

The Sixers selected Fultz with the No. 1 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, where he spent two seasons before a trade to the Orlando Magic. Fultz never panned out into his pre-draft self but instead evolved into a tenacious defender with solid playmaking ability. Last season was a bit disappointing, largely due to limited playing time and injury issues, but 2023 brought career-highs in points (14), assists (5.7), steals (1.5), and field goal percentage (51.4).

Philadelphia's backcourt consists of Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Eric Gordon, and Ricky Council as of now. While the unit is undoubtedly strong enough to contend for a championship, there's no denying additional size and defense could help. At 6-foot-4, 210 pounds, Fultz is by no means the biggest guard, but has impressive physical tools. One of his biggest attributes coming out of Washington was his unique athleticism, impressive body control, and long strides.

Fultz is expected to receive interest from numerous title-contending teams, as his play style can mesh with the majority of systems. However, the Sixers have an upper hand in the situation thanks to their familiarity with Fultz and his team, with the 26-year-old even speaking highly of his time in Philadelphia in 2021.

Newly acquired star Paul George could play some minutes in the backcourt, but allowing him to spend all his time in a forward position could allow for a much smoother rotation.