Former number one NBA draft pick Fultz was traded to the Magic by the 76ers on Thursday.

Fultz, who was acquired by the Magic in exchange for Jonathon Simmons and two draft picks – has struggled with his shooting, form and injuries since he was taken first in 2017.

The 20-year-old has been out since November 19 and was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome in mid-December. He is averaging 8.2 points and 3.1 assists in 19 appearances in 2018-19.

However, Weltman and the Magic still think Fultz can reach his potential in Orlando.

“Markelle Fultz was the No. 1 pick in the draft two years ago, and it wasn’t a fluke,” Weltman said. “I think the whole league had him there. So, we believe that, at 20 years old, the sky’s the limit for him.”

“His ceiling is exceptionally high,” Weltman added. “I think he’s a 20-year-old player with tremendous potential and I feel confident in saying the league looks at him that way, not just us.”

Fultz has shot just 41.4 per cent from the field and 26.7 per cent from three-point range in 33 career games.

“We look forward to getting him in here, getting our arms around him and understanding everything that he’s dealing with,” Weltman said. “Getting him through that, it’s our job organisationally – from the performance directors and the coaches – to put him in a spot to succeed. However long that takes, that’s how long it will take.”

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