New Report on Clippers, Bucks Targeting Former First-Overall Pick

The LA Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks reportedly had interest in signing Markelle Fultz

Dec 27, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) drives to the basket as Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz (20) defends during the second half at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-Imagn Images / Kim Klement-Imagn Images

The LA Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks didn't make the flashiest of moves at the NBA Trade Deadline, but both teams set themselves up to make solid acquisitions in the buyout market.

While the Bucks haven't acquired anyone major yet, the Clippers already found a great pickup in Ben Simmons. As it turns out, both teams were actually looking at another former number-one overall pick, who was ultimately grabbed by the Sacramento Kings.

According to Jason Anderson of the Sacramento Bee, the LA Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks both showed interest in new Kings guard Markelle Fultz. Here is the exact excerpt from Anderson's article.

New Sacramento Kings PG Markelle Fultz says his health and his shooting are better than they’ve ever been since he came to the NBA as the No. 1 pick in the 2017 draft ⬇️https://t.co/R0UabNkKki

— Jason Anderson (@JandersonSacBee) February 15, 2025

"Fultz said he has been training Monday through Friday in Los Angeles in recent months while preparing for his comeback. He drew interest from the Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks and other teams before reaching an agreement with the Kings following a private workout in front of assistant general manager Wes Wilcox and other members of the organization," Anderson said.

Free agent guard Markelle Fultz has agreed to a deal with the Sacramento Kings, his agent Raymond Brothers of I AM Sports & Entertainment told ESPN. Kings have searched to find a point guard – and land a deal with the former No. 1 overall pick. pic.twitter.com/oqnBqnpyCy

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 13, 2025

Last season with the Orlando Magic, Fultz averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists on 47/22/70 shooting from the field.

It's hard to see a situation where the Clippers pursued both Fultz and Simmons, especially with the overlap that the two have. Both players would have been somewhat of a reclamation project for the team, and it seems like Simmons was the perfect fit in that regard.

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