Markelle Fultz to Raptors: 10-Day Contract for Former #1 Pick | NBA News

Toronto, ON – The Toronto Raptors are taking a chance on a former No. 1 overall pick, announcing Monday they have signed guard Markelle Fultz to a 10-day contract. The move offers a fresh opportunity for a player whose career trajectory has been one of the most perplexing in recent NBA history.

Fultz, 27, was selected first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2017 NBA Draft, ahead of players like Jayson Tatum. However, injuries and inconsistent play have prevented him from living up to the immense expectations placed upon him. His career has been marked by setbacks, becoming a source of ongoing discussion among fans and analysts.

Most recently, Fultz spent time with the Raptors 905, Toronto’s G League affiliate, in an attempt to revitalize his career. His performance with the 905 evidently impressed the Raptors’ front office, leading to this 10-day contract. He averaged 9.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in five games with the 905, even hitting a game-winning shot against the Motor City Cruise on March 17.

The Raptors (39-31 as of March 24, 2026) are currently in a tight race for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, battling with the Hawks, 76ers, Magic, Heat, and Hornets to avoid the play-in tournament. Adding a player with Fultz’s potential ball-handling and playmaking skills could provide a boost as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. While it’s unlikely Fultz will single-handedly alter the Raptors’ playoff outlook, his ability to create off the dribble could be a valuable asset.

Fultz’s NBA journey began with the 76ers, where he struggled to locate consistency before being traded to the Orlando Magic in 2019. He spent five seasons in Orlando, showcasing flashes of his potential but never fully establishing himself as a reliable starter. Last season, he signed with the Sacramento Kings, appearing in 21 games but averaging only 8.8 minutes per contest.

Despite the challenges, Fultz has demonstrated a capacity for strong defensive play and ball movement on offense. His best season came in 2022-23 with the Orlando Magic, where he averaged 14 points and 5.7 assists while shooting 51.4% from the field. That level of efficiency, if he can recapture it, would be a significant addition for Toronto.

The Raptors are hoping that a change of scenery and a focused opportunity will allow Fultz to rediscover the form that made him the top pick in 2017. The 10-day contract provides a low-risk opportunity for both player and team to evaluate a potential fit. It’s a gamble, but one that could pay off if Fultz can overcome the obstacles that have defined much of his professional career.

For Fultz, this is a critical moment. A successful 10-day stint could lead to a longer-term contract with the Raptors or another NBA team. A disappointing performance, however, could signal the end of his NBA aspirations. The pressure is on to prove he can still contribute at the highest level.

The Raptors next face the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, March 26th at 7:30 PM ET (00:30 UTC on March 27th). It remains to be seen if Fultz will be available for that game, but his presence on the roster adds an intriguing dynamic to the team’s playoff push.

Fans can follow updates on Fultz’s status and the Raptors’ playoff race on the team’s official website https://www.raptors.com/ and social media channels.