Update: Even after this report and today’s postponements, the NBA maintains its previous statement by spokesman Mike Bass: “We anticipate that there will be game postponements this season and we plan the schedule accordingly. There are no plans to interrupt the season and we will continue to be guided by our medical experts and health and safety protocols. “
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The NBA has given all indications that it plans to continue playing during the coronavirus pandemic.
But as the problems increase …
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski:
The NBA scheduled a special meeting of the Board of Governors for Tuesday, sources told ESPN.
– Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 11, 2021
NBA general managers have a conference call scheduled today to discuss these issues with the league today, sources told ESPN. https://t.co/RtAvacSLmO
– Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 11, 2021
Among the topics for GM’s call today centered on tightening protocols, sources tell ESPN: Re-examine putts and practice lengths, pre- and post-game socialization on the court (for example, hugs), other restaurant dinner restrictions and rules more rigid over mask. wearing.
– Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 11, 2021
Jason Dumas of KRON4 News:
Source: NBA considering a 7 to 14 day break amid the growing rate of positive cases within the league. NBA chiefs and GMs will meet today or tomorrow to reconsider safety protocols. The league wants to avoid a break, but it’s on the table. @ kron4news
– Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) January 11, 2021
It is worth remembering: although NBA players are getting coronavirus during the season, they contracted the virus at a much higher rate before reporting to their teams. In many ways, this is a public relations crisis. But a public relations crisis is nothing, and there are also real problems with the spread of the virus.
The protocols defined to be discussed among general managers can help. Frequent testing of the alloy is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. But infected players can be contagious before the test is positive. Limiting players’ interactions with each other can reduce spread.
A special owners’ meeting seems more important. They have the power to do something more radical – like suspending the season.