While the Boston Celtics saw a third consecutive game postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NBA and the Players’ Association were negotiating on Tuesday to tighten the security protocol measures.
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At least that’s what the ESPN network reported. After seeing Sunday and Tuesday’s duels – against the Miami Heat and the Chicago Bulls respectively – postponed, the Celtics will not be able to face the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, since they do not have enough players available.
In addition, the Silver circuit would like to add some constraints during games to avoid the spread of the disease. Thus, braces could be prohibited with players of opposing teams. Physical contact within teams should also be reduced, in particular by putting a cross on hand slaps after free throws.
If the changes materialize, players will no longer be able to leave their hotel rooms other than for team activities while on the road and will no longer be able to invite people to their rooms. The directive will also apply at home, where athletes will only be able to leave their homes for essential needs.
Pre-match meetings will be limited to 10 minutes with masks in the locker room. All other meetings should take place in the field or in a location large enough to allow physical distancing. Wearing the mask at the team bench will now be required at all times. Players leaving the field will have a designated place to catch their breath before meeting their teammates at the main bench.
According to the protocols in place since the start of the season, players are not allowed to go to bars and clubs. They cannot participate in events with more than 15 people.
James Harden was fined in particular, paying $ 50,000 after being caught in the bag at a Houston club during the holidays.
