Markelle Fultz is no longer working with famed shooting coach Drew Hanlen

Philadelphia guard Markelle Fultz is no longer working with his shooting coach, Drew Hanlen. Could Fultz’s lack of progress be the root of the issue?

Markelle Fultz and Drew Hanlen’s union is officially over. The Philadelphia 76ers guard parted ways with the noted shooting coach, who has worked with players like Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum and Mo Bamba. Is it possible that a lack of progression in Fultz’s shooting touch was the reason?

According to Liberty Ballers, Fultz and his camp were so unhappy with his progress they ended up confronting Hanlen about it.

And possibly, this tweet from a week ago in which Hanlen disclosed that Fultz wasn’t fully healthy may have been a dealbreaker, too.

This past Monday night, Fultz shooting struggles were on full display, as he showcased a hitch in his shooting motion at the free throw line against the Miami Heat.

Fultz this season is shooting 41 percent from the floor, 31 percent from 3 and just under 58 percent from the free throw line. While his field goal and 3-point percentages aren’t horrible, it could definitely be considered subpar-especially regarding his expectations as a top draft pick. In addition, his discomfort and clear unwillingness to shoot, even when open, are concerning issues.

Hanlen’s firing could also spell a sense of urgency for Fultz, as the 76ers acquirement of Jimmy Butler via trade has put Fultz under a microscope regarding his role and importance to the team. Fultz results thus far are leaving more to be desired, and the big three the 76ers planned on with him Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid can easily become a Butler/Simmons/Embiid dynamic.

In due time,  hopefully, we will see a change in Fultz shot due to Fultz finding a trainer who can get him over the hump.