Atlantic Division Roundup: Fultz Makes Raptors Debut; George Eligible to Return; McCain, Minott, Tatum Updates
atlantic-division-roundup-fultz-george-mccain
The Toronto Raptors played Monday’s home game against the Utah Jazz without starters Brandon Ingram (right heel inflammation), Immanuel Quickley (plantar fasciitis) and Jakob Poeltl (injury load management). Rookie forward Collin Murray-Boyles returned after an 11-game absence caused by a thumb injury, while newly signed point guard Markelle Fultz appeared in his first NBA contest for Toronto.
Fultz logs second game of the day
Fultz, promoted from Raptors 905 earlier in the afternoon after playing in a G League matchup, saw 16 minutes off the bench. Toronto was outscored by 15 during his stint, and he finished with two points and three turnovers, but also tallied five assists and two steals in the victory.
“You can see that he’s comfortable getting the team into the offense and organizing,” head coach Darko Rajakovic said. “It was awesome to see him out there, knowing that he played a game this morning.”
Raptors 905 coach Drew Jones praised the former No. 1 overall pick’s approach since joining the affiliate: “A former No. 1 pick could come in here and act like he owns the place, but he walked right in and said, ‘Coach, what do you need me to do?’ … He’s been awesome.”
George completes suspension
Philadelphia forward Paul George served the 25th and final game of his suspension Monday. Head coach Nick Nurse said George conditioned intensely during the layoff and faces no ramp-up limitations before Wednesday’s meeting with the Bulls.
McCain faces former club
Thunder guard Jared McCain, traded from the 76ers last month, scored 13 points off the bench to help Oklahoma City defeat Philadelphia. “It’s like a nostalgic feeling to come back and not live here,” McCain said, adding that he still seeks closure after the move.
Minott impresses Nets
Forward Josh Minott, acquired from Boston in February’s salary-dump deal, is drawing positive reviews in Brooklyn for his defensive energy and competitiveness. The Nets hold a team-friendly $2.6 million option on Minott for the 2026/27 season.
Tatum’s early progress
Celtics star Jayson Tatum acknowledged frustration over not yet performing at full capacity. According to The Athletic, his defensive and rebounding numbers remain strong, but he is currently attempting more three-pointers and earning fewer free throws than usual.
Source: HoopsRumors
