LOS ANGELES – Lakers centerman Marc Gasol was ruled out against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night because of NBA health and safety protocols, according to a team spokesman.
Los Angeles is having a two-game winning streak since the return of title guard Dennis Schroder, who had lost the Lakers’ previous four games – all of them defeats – while out on the pitch because of a breach of health and safety protocols by cause of contact tracking.
Gasol, 36, signed a two-year off-season contract to join the defending champion. He has averaged 4.8 points and 4.1 rebounds this season.
Gasol’s absence could mean more playing time for center Damian Jones, who recently signed a 10-day contract and scored eight points, three rebounds and two blocks on his debut with the team against Golden State. Jones is listed as likely for the Suns game with a lower back injury.