BOSTON _ The 76ers knew that Markelle Fultz would be joining the team in Boston to celebrate Christmas, but the team wasn't expecting him on Christmas Eve.
"He surprised us on the plane yesterday," T.J. McConnell said before the Sixers took on the Celtics on Tuesday. "It was amazing to see him back and in good spirits. Though, I've never really seen him have a bad day, that's just how he is."
The Sixers boarded a plane with Futlz, Zhaire Smith and family members of players and the coaching staff on Monday evening. They came together Tuesday morning for a small brunch celebration at the Ritz Carlton in Boston before heading to TD Garden.
"It's great to have (Fultz and Smith) on the trip," coach Brett Brown said. "In relation to what that means as far as getting back to playing basketball, I do not know."
Brown added that he's not sure what Fultz's schedule is going forward. When asked if Fultz could be with the team for more of its five-game road trip that started in Boston, Brown said the team and the medical staff are currently in discussions about that.
Fultz has been in Los Angeles doing physical therapy to address thoracic outlet syndrome. He has not played since Nov. 21.
Fultz's agent Raymond Brothers said Fultz is progressing well in his rehabilitation and expects his client to return to play this season, according to ESPN.
