Magic's Fultz returning vs. Pacers after 13-month absence

Orlando Magic guard Markelle Fultz is set to return from an ACL tear that has kept him out of action for over 13 months, he announced Sunday.

Orlando's Monday matchup against the Indiana Pacers will mark Fultz's first game since suffering the knee injury on Jan. 6, 2021.

The 2017 first overall pick has had a disjointed NBA career, suiting up in more than 20 games in a campaign just once in four seasons.

Fultz's tenure in the league began with a two-year stint with the Philadelphia 76ers, during which he dealt with a lingering shoulder issue that affected his shooting form. He had a strong third season after Philadelphia traded him to the Magic but got hurt just eight games into his 2020-21 campaign.

The 23-year-old is averaging 10.9 points and 4.6 assists across 113 NBA games while shooting just 26.5% from long range.

Magic guard Cole Anthony took on a larger role with Fultz out of the lineup, leading the team in scoring this season with 17.6 points per game. The team also drafted Gonzaga star Jalen Suggs in the 2021 NBA Draft, further crowding Orlando's backcourt.