Sports

LeBron James Out Under NBA's COVID Protocol

Lakers star LeBron James has said he is vaccinated for the coronavirus. The team did not say if he tested positive.

LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers missed Tuesday's game as mandated by the NBA's COVID-19 protocol.
LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers missed Tuesday's game as mandated by the NBA's COVID-19 protocol. ( Andy Lyons/Getty Images) (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CA — COVID-19 health and safety protocols sidelined Lakers star LeBron James for Tuesday's game against the Sacramento Kings

The team did not say if their star tested positive for the coronavirus nor when he might return.

"It's a huge loss, you know," Lakers coach Frank Vogel told reporters prior to tip-off. "It's disappointing. We just want the best for him right now. That's where our thoughts are."

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There are three factors that trigger the NBA's COVID-19 protocol for players. If a player tests positive for the coronavirus, has an inconclusive test or is exposed to COVID, then he can't play.

Under league rules, he can return to action following two negative COVID tests at least 24 hours apart. Players who test positive must sit out a minimum of 10 days.

Find out what's happening in Los Angelesfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

James has said he is vaccinated against COVID.

City News Service contributed to this report.

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