Celtics' Sullinger magically recovers, ready to return from foot fracture

It's too late for this to be an April Fool's joke, right? 

The Boston Celtics announced Friday that power forward Jared Sullinger - whose season has been considered finished since the All-Star break, when he was diagnosed with a metatarsal stress fracture in his left foot - has healed completely. 

Sullinger will be available to play Friday night against the Milwaukee Bucks.

This is a potential game-changer for the playoff-hopeful Celtics, who currently sit tied (but short a tiebreaker) with the Miami Heat for eighth place in the Eastern Conference. 

Of their seven remaining games, four are against opponents with winning records (two apiece against the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors) with two more against the 37-38 Bucks. 

Before his injury (and the deadline-day arrival of Isaiah Thomas), Sullinger was leading the Celtics in points (14.4) and rebounds (8.1) per game, both career-highs. 

"We are excited that Jared’s recovery progressed quicker than initially expected," said Celtics president and general manager Danny Ainge. "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."