In a surprise move, the Boston Celtics announced Friday that forward Jared Sullinger would be available for that night’s matchup with the Milwaukee Bucks.
Sullinger suffered a metatarsal stress fracture in his left foot just before the NBA All-Star break in mid-February and has not played in the 24 games since. The 23-year-old initially was expected to miss the remainder of the season, but his injury “has healed completely,” according to the team.
“We are excited that Jared’s recovery progressed quicker than initially expected,” Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge said in a statement. “Jared was extremely diligent in his rehab, repeatedly expressing his eagerness to help our team reach the postseason. He will be available in a limited role this weekend as he works his way back to 100 percent game shape.”
Sullinger was the team’s leading scorer and rebounder at the time of the injury, averaging 14.4 points and 8.1 rebounds over 51 games this season.
The Celtics entered Friday tied for eighth place in the Eastern Conference with seven regular-season games remaining.
Thumbnail photo via Mark L. Baer/USA TODAY Sports Images
