The Lakers became the latest team to deal with the global coronavirus pandemic. On Wednesday, players underwent testing after facing the Brooklyn Nets on March 10th, one of the few teams to announce statuses this week. Today, the team confirmed that they are dealing with some cases per Los Angeles Times reporter Brad Turner, along with The Athletics Shams Charania.
Sources: Can confirm that 2 Lakers players have tested positive for the coronavirus. 14 players had been tested Wednesday. Players got results Thursday. @ShamsCharania first.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) March 19, 2020
While the team deals with salvaging the season, its attention continues to hone in on the player’s staying healthy. The Lakers released a statement via NBA.com:
Following four Brooklyn Nets players testing positive for COVID-19, because Los Angeles Lakers’ players were exposed to them during our game against the Nets on March 10, our team physicians and public health officials recommended coronavirus testing for the players.
We learned today that two Lakers players have tested positive. Both players are currently asymptomatic, in quarantine and under the care of the team’s physician.
All players and members of the Lakers staff are being asked to continue to observe self-quarantine and shelter at home guidelines, closely monitor their health, consult with their personal physicians and maintain constant communication with the team.
The health and well-being of our players, our organization, our fans, and all those potentially impacted by this situation is paramount. As always, we appreciate the support of our fans, family and friends, and wish everyone affected by this virus a speedy recovery
The NBA also announced strict restrictions during this hiatus, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Sources: NBA has informed teams that players are allowed to travel out of market, but preference remains that players stay in cities they play. As expected, teams facilities will close down to players and staff starting tomorrow.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 19, 2020
Ramona Shelbourne, also of ESPN, reports that the team is expanding their testing.
Lakers now plan to test a small group of coaches/staffers who had close contact with players, according to sources. https://t.co/sgOZsP6oIS
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) March 19, 2020
Fans and the rest of the league await updates from around the association.