LeBron James enters COVID protocol, out for Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers start LeBron James enters COVID protocol and will miss at least one game under health and safety protocols.

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, LeBron James has entered COVID protocols and is out for the Tuesday, Nov. 30 game versus the Sacramento Kings.

“LeBron James has entered health and safety protocols and is out tonight vs. Sacramento, Lakers say,” he wrote.

UPDATE —

According to TMZ, James tested positive for COVID-19 on two separate tests. First on a “lateral flow test” then negative on a PCR test and a third “tie-breaker test” came up positive.

The outlet also reported James was being flown back to LA on a private plane in order to keep everyone safe. He is also reportedly suffering from no symptoms.

LeBron James is in COVID protocols and out for the Lakers vs. Kings

This is the latest development in a season that has already been stilted for James and the Lakers. He already missed a stretch with an ab issue and served a one-game suspension for his altercation with Isaiah Stewart.

This season, the Lakers have played 22 games but James has only suited up for 11 of them. He’ll miss Game 23 on Tuesday night against the Kings.

James has previously indicated he is vaccinated, that means he would not have to miss time if he was simply a close contact of someone else who tested positive for COVID-19.

James hasn’t indicated whether he tested positive for the coronavirus himself.

At this point, it’s hard to get a read on how long he could remain out. After the game against the Kings, the Lakers are scheduled to face the Clippers on Friday, so he has a few days to get out of the protocol in time for that game.