Philadelphia 76ers guard Markelle Fultz continues to take encouraging steps in his rehab from a shoulder injury, but the final obstacle between practicing and an official return remains in the rookie’s way.
Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer notes Fultz has participated in 5-on-5 scrimmages yet isn’t cleared for full practices. According to Pompey, the 76ers said it’s unclear when Fultz will return.
Early in January, the team announced Fultz was cleared for the last stage of his shoulder rehab. However, there are several phases in this final aspect of his rehab.
Philly previously said it wouldn’t rush Fultz, and avoiding a clearly stated timeline is important for him, too. Otherwise, the Washington product may feel pressured to return before he’s completely healthy.
And after watching him struggle mightily to begin the year, the Sixers should have no issue waiting for the best version of Fultz. In four appearances, he managed just 24 total points. A healthy Fultz could score that on any given night.