The Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as a potential suitor for former first-overall pick Markelle Fultz, according to reports from Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints. Despite early career struggles marred by injuries, Fultz has shown promising signs of development with the Orlando Magic.
“Per sources, the LA has had internal conversations about Fultz, the former first-overall pick who hasn’t lived up to his draft position but was solid last season playing for the Orlando Magic,” Irwin wrote.
Lakers Talking About Adding Fultz
Fultz’s ability to score, pass, and defend could provide a valuable boost to the Lakers’ backcourt. His potential to fill the backup point guard role behind LeBron James and Anthony Davis is intriguing, especially considering D’Angelo Russell’s inconsistent performances. However, Fultz’s struggles with three-point shooting remain a concern.
Fultz, whose three-year, $50 million rookie extension with the Magic recently expired, remains unsigned. The Lakers, however, face roster limitations and would need to make corresponding moves to acquire him, as they currently lack the necessary roster spots. This could involve trading existing players or exploring other creative roster moves.
The 26-year-old Fultz averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.0 steals in 43 games, including 18 starts, for the Magic last season.
NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe two future Lakers first-round draft picks in 2029 and 2031 are the team’s most coveted trade assets, given the Stepien Rule. They can trade two unprotected first-round picks and three swaps overall. In addition to those draft picks, D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, and Gabe Vincent will be discussed on the trade market.