Paul George, Kawhi Leonard discarded for COVID-19 protocol

The Los Angeles Clippers dismissed stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George on Monday in Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks, citing NBA health and safety protocols COVID-19.

Tuesday marks the first of six away games in nine days for the Clippers, who are in the middle of a seven-game winning streak and have played 10 consecutive matches in California.

According to The Athletic, none of the players traveled to Atlanta. Guard Patrick Beverley also remained in Los Angeles after being excluded due to knee pain.

Kawhi Leonard and Paul George in defense during a game.
The Clippers will begin a six-game journey without their two best players. (Brian Rothmuller / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Return date for Clippers stars uncertain

It is unclear what prompted Leonard and George to submit to the league’s health and safety protocol. One or both players can join the Clippers on their journey if they are released.

Leonard has an average of 25.9 points, 5.7 assists, 5.4 rebounds and two steals in 15 games, while George has an average of 23.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.4 assists in 16 games. The 13-4 Clippers are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers at the top of the Western Conference.

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