Lakers star LeBron James was signed into NBA pandemic protocol on Tuesday.
He’s not available for the Los Angeles game at Sacramento.
In all likelihood, James, who has previously said he was vaccinated, either tested positive for COVID-19 or received an inconclusive result.
If he has contracted the virus, James will likely be away for a minimum of 10 days, unless he shows two negative tests in 24 hours.
Also on Tuesday, the NBA and the Players’ Association reiterated that fully vaccinated coaches and players are encouraged to get an additional dose of a vaccine as soon as possible.
In a memo obtained by the Associated Press, the league reports 34 instances where a fully immunized player, coach or staff member still tested positive.
The NBA has already said that about 97% of players are fully immunized.
One of the exceptions is Kyrie Irving, who has yet to play this season.
Including Tuesday, James missed 12 of his first 23 games.
Injuries cost him 10 encounters. He also received a one-game suspension – his first such penalty in a 19-year career.
James has averaged 25.8 points per game this season.