Magic PG Markelle Fultz 'Extremely Grateful' After Making Return

Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz returned after missing 27 straight games with a knee injury.

ORLANDO - At long last, Markelle Fultz returned to the hardwood for the Orlando Magic after missing nearly two months with a knee injury. 

Fultz came off the bench and played 15 minutes in the Magic's 117-110 overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday at the Kia Center. While he didn't make a basket, the veteran point guard had four assists, two rebounds and a steal. 

Markelle Fultz driving to the basket on opening night vs. the Houston Rockets / © Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

For Fultz, the opportunity to return to action after his lengthy absence is something he's grateful for. 

“It’s huge," Fultz said after Sunday's win. "I’m just extremely blessed to have the opportunity to be able to step back out there with my teammates and that’s pretty much it. That’s all I care about is being able to be out there with my brothers. Go out there and compete and just try to get wins. That’s what we did tonight. I’m just extremely grateful. I’m glad I made it through the game healthy. I’m glad we got a win.”

Fultz has only played in six games this season and has averaged 9.5 points, 4 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game. 

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For a Magic team dealing with a bevy of injuries, Fultz's return is a welcome sign. For Fultz, the return is important as he's in the final year of his contract. If Fultz can progress, stay healthy and find success for the duration of the season, it'll be important to the Magic's success and for himself after this season.