Post by Majic on Sept 29, 2021 8:31:45 GMT -5
Markelle Fultz
PG
6'4
190
19
Washington
Long discussed as being the potential gem of this class, Fultz did not disappoint in his lone year of college. Although the Huskies finished with a disappointing 9-22 record, Fultz enjoyed one of the best freshman seasons in all Pac-12 Conference history. His points per game number was the best the Huskies had seen in over 60 years and the highest mark in the Pac 12 in 20 years.
Fultz is the most well rounded player in this draft and easily the best point guard to mix playmaking with scoring. He jumps off the page athletically and possesses creative scoring instincts. As the leader of the offense he has a knack for controlling the speed of the game. He has excellent passing vision and sees plays develop, he can then put zip on the ball to create easy scoring chances for his teammates. Thankfully he is careful with the ball, not often does he throw an errand pass.
All that playmaking does not take away from his scoring ability, as his college accolades show. Fultz has a knack for making the right play and putting points on the board. Fultz is big for his size and rather strong as well, he is able to absorb contact and finish at the rim. He is also a good shot off the dribble and can reliably shoot from deep.
One criticism of his offensive game that he will need to work on though is his free throw shooting. He only convertated his attempts at 65%, which is surprising considering his ability to score otherwise. He may need to tweak his mechanics a bit but the potential is there.
Fultz is an instinctual rebounder and looks to fight for loose balls. He averaged almost 6 rebounds per game and scouts expect that to translate. His long wingspan and natural strength help get him into great positions even against larger opponents.
Defensively, Fultz has all the upside to become a lockdown defender but will need to be more engaged. His athleticism allows him to stick with anyone when he turns it on and has active hands for easy steals. His length also allows him to get the occasional block as well, which is a huge bonus for his position. Again, he will need to work on his focus as he has a tendency to stand upright and be a bit lackadaisical on that end, but the tools are all there.
Fultz showed tremendous growth in his lone year of college and is still only 19. He has the foundation to be a very good player right away and has the upside to become an elite player. If he can fix a couple of his flaws then he could become the best point guard in the league.