Nikola Jokic, several other NBA players test positive for COVID-19
Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic and several other NBA players have tested positive for COVID-19 in recent days, according to published reports.
The Serbian veteran is one of the NBA’s premier big men. Jokic is averaging a career-best 20.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists in 65 games this season.
Sacramento Kings players Jabari Parker, Buddy Hield and Alex Len have contracted COVID-19, the team announced on Wednesday.
Also, Indiana Pacers point guard Malcolm Brogdon has tested positive.
What’s more, two unnamed Phoenix Suns players have also acquired the virus. As a result, the Suns have halted individual workouts.
NBA protocol
Players are required to undergo COVID-19 testing before traveling to Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida, to train. The season relaunch is set for July 30.
Twenty-two of 30 NBA teams are scheduled to finish the season in Florida. After that, 16 clubs will compete in the playoffs at the sprawling entertainment complex.
NBA training camps will get underway on July 11, with individual workouts scheduled to resume on July 1.
Nikola Jokic update
Nikola Jokic is resting in Serbia. Compatriot Novak Djokovic, the tennis great, has also tested positive for COVID-19.
Despite the diagnosis, it appears that Jokic is recovering.
“Jokic has been asymptomatic since testing positive last week,” Reuters reported. “…He is expected to be cleared to travel to Denver within a week.”
Branislav Jokic, Nikola’s father, said his son is doing OK.
“What he had is gone,” the elder Jokic told Russian media outlet nova.rs. “He is not showing symptoms. He is with us and everything is fine.”
Jokic, 25, is in his fifth season with the Nuggets (43-22), who have the third-best record in the Western Conference.
Brogdon tests positive
Elsewhere, Brogdon took the COVID-19 test on Tuesday, and confirmed the results. He is in quarantine now.
“I’m doing well, feeling well and progressing well,” the Pacers playmaker said. “I plan to join my teammates in Orlando for the resumption of the NBA season and playoffs.”
Parker update
Individuals who contract COVID-19 should self-quarantine, according to medical experts.
Consequently, Parker, like Nikola Jokic, is following this advice.
“Several days ago I tested positive for COVID-19 and immediately self-isolated in Chicago, which is where I remain,” he said in a statement. “I am progressing in my recovery and feeling well. I look forward to joining my teammates in Orlando…”