The NBA issued an official statement on LeBron James’ breach of corona protocol last week, explaining why the Los Angeles Lakers superstar was not banned. Meanwhile, Chris Paul seems to be fit for Game 2. Here you can find all the news and rumors about the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns.
NBA responds to LeBron’s breach of corona protocol
At the weekend, it was revealed that LeBron James had broken the NBA’s corona protocol at a promotional event for a tequila brand. However, this had no consequences, which led to speculation as to whether the league might give preference to the superstar. Now the NBA has officially taken a position in a statement.
“To clear up any remaining ambiguities: Last week LeBron James briefly attended an outdoor event, the participants of which were required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test,” the statement said. “Under these circumstances and after consulting with medical professionals, it was determined that his presence did not pose a risk of spreading COVID-19 and therefore no quarantine was required.”
The NBA statement went on to say, “There have been numerous similar league health protocol violations throughout the season that have been addressed in a similar manner to each player’s team. Under current NBA rules, vaccinated players are allowed to participate in outdoor activities for example from sponsors or to participate in photo shoots. “
LeBron has always avoided asking questions about whether he was vaccinated. Chris Haynes from Yahoo Sport reads from the league’s statement, however, that the 36-year-old was vaccinated.
NBA Playoffs: Chris Paul probably fit for Game 2 against Lakers
On Wednesday night, Game 2 of the first round series between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers is on the program (from 4 a.m. in the League Pass). In the opening win of the Suns in Game 1, the hosts had to cope with a moment of shock when Chris Paul injured his right shoulder.
The point guard was able to continue despite a shoulder bruise and will probably also be available in game 2. The 36-year-old’s name did not appear on the Sun’s official Injury Report. Shortly after game 1, Paul had already stated that he wanted to be part of game 2 “absolutely”.
The Lakers, however, continue to list LeBron James (ankle) and Anthony Davis (right shoulder) on their Injury Report for Game 2. However, both are listed as “probable”, so their use is likely.
Lakers, News: Barkley taunts LeBron and Co.
After the Lakers’ 90-99 defeat in Game 1, Charles Barkley stated that the reigning champion shouldn’t be considered a favorite to defend the title. “I see all these idiots on TV who say the Lakers are the team to beat. That’s not true,” he said TNT-Analyst after the game. “Nobody is afraid of them.”
Due to several injuries, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis missed large parts of the season, the Lakers crashed in the regular season to seventh place and had to qualify for the playoffs in the play-in tournament in the first place. “They haven’t played real basketball together for months,” said Barkley. “They played against the Suns as they did against the Warriors (in the play-in, editor’s note). The Warriors were just bad, Steph Curry didn’t get any Help.”
LeBron and Davis also had problems in Game 1 against the Suns, together they only came out of the field with 31 points at 11/29. “These two guys have to play great if the Lakers are to win,” said the Hall of Famer. After Game 1, after a far too passive appearance, AD took responsibility for the bankruptcy and announced a reaction.
Suns vs. Lakers: The series at a glance – Status: 1-0
| game | date | Time | Home | Away | Results |
| 1 | 23. May | 9.30 p.m. | Suns | Lakers | 99:90 |
| 2 | 26. May | 4 o’clock | Suns | Lakers | |
| 3 | 28. Mai | 4 o’clock | Lakers | Suns | |
| 4 | 30. May | 9.30 p.m. | Lakers | Suns | |
| 5* | 2. June | tba | Suns | Lakers | |
| 6* | 4. June | tba | Lakers | Suns | |
| 7* | 6. June | tba | Suns | Lakers |
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