1 Dream, 1 reach, 1 realistic free agent for the Timberwolves to target
By Austin McGee
Reach free agent: Markelle Fultz
Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz is one of the oddest cases in recent memory. After entering the 2017 NBA Draft as the surefire first-overall pick, Fultz's career has never quite taken off. Now 25 years old, his once-promising potential seems to be on its last legs.
Fultz might just be who he is—an athletic slasher who's also a plus playmaker. The 6-foot-5 guard made just 4-of-18 triples in 43 appearances this past season. Nearly 70 percent of his looks came within 10 feet of the basket.
His length and athleticism allow him to get where he wants on the floor and to score over bigger defenders in the paint. However, his lack of jump-shot range has plagued the young guard. Fultz has never shot better than 31.0 percent from beyond the arc.
The former first-overall pick's impressive traits would lead you to believe he's a quality defender. Nonetheless, his opponents shot much better from the floor when defended by Fultz. The Magic guard was abysmal defending the rim—his opponents shot 14.1 percent better when Fultz played primary defender.
Conversely, the staunch Orlando defense was even better with Fultz on the floor. During Fultz's minutes, the Magic forced more turnovers, allowed fewer offensive rebounds, and held opponents to 1.8 points less per 100 possessions.
While there are multiple flaws in the 25-year-old guard's game, there are also various reasons to believe Fultz will improve. Taking a bet on Fultz as he hits his first free agency figures to be a good bargain. It'll be surprising to see the athletic guard receive a similar contract after making $50 million over the past three years.
Fultz likely settles for a one-year prove-it deal similar to Oubre a season ago. He's struggled to stay healthy and hasn't lived up to his draft pedigree let alone his last contract. Minnesota is a fantastic spot to revive some of his lost value.
The Magic guard would spell Conley and line up alongside the equally physically impressive Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the reserve backcourt. As a member of the bench unit, Fultz would be surrounded by shooters such as Alexander-Walker and Naz Reid—thus hiding his main flaw.