Raptors 905 Sign Markelle Fultz
The Raptors 905 have made a significant addition to their roster by signing Markelle Fultz, a former first overall pick in the NBA draft. This move comes during a challenging period for the team, which has seen several players promoted to the NBA.
Recent Player Movement
Recently, the Raptors 905 lost key players due to NBA call-ups. Notably, David Roddy has signed a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets after impressive performances in the G League. Additionally, Olivier Sarr, brother of NBA prospect Alex Sarr, has joined the Cleveland Cavaliers on a similar contract.
The trend began with Julian Reese, who was signed to a two-way contract by the Washington Wizards. In light of these changes, the 905 secured Tyrese Samuel, the reigning Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) Player of the Year, to bolster their lineup.
Markelle Fultz: A New Chapter
Markelle Fultz arrives at Raptors 905 seeking redemption after an inconsistent tenure in the NBA. He was drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers but struggled to find his footing during his two seasons in Philadelphia, aligning with the team’s “trust the process” era.
Fultz was eventually traded to the Orlando Magic for Jonathon Simmons and draft picks. During his time in Orlando, he performed admirably, averaging 11.6 points, 4.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game over 201 appearances in five seasons.
Challenges in Recent Seasons
The 2023/24 season marked a downturn for Fultz with the Magic, particularly following the rise of rookie Anthony Black. Most recently, he played for the Sacramento Kings during the 2024/25 season. However, his minutes dwindled to an average of just 8.8 across 21 games.
Impact of Raptors 905 in Player Development
This acquisition emphasizes the Raptors 905’s reputation for nurturing talent. With the recent losses of several players to the NBA, the team continues to demonstrate their commitment to development and competitive play.
