Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel knows they are facing an uphill battle after superstar LeBron James tested positive for COVID-19 and had to enter the NBA's health and safety protocol.
Ahead of Tuesday's game against the Sacramento Kings, Vogel addressed the sudden turn of events. LeBron was not in the Lakers' injury report heading into the game, so it came as a surprise when he was ruled out indefinitely due to the COVID-19 protocol.
Vogel admitted that LeBron's absence is a huge blow to the Lakers, though they are adopting a “next man up” mentality as they navigate the absence of unarguably their best player.
“Obviously it's a huge loss. It's disappointing. We have a next-man-up mindset,” Vogel said, per Ryan Ward of Lakers Nation.
Frank Vogel also shared that they found out about LeBron James' condition on Tuesday morning. Apparently, they quickly arranged a safe transportation for him to return to Los Angeles where he can quarantine and recover.
Lakers coach Frank Vogel says the team found out this morning LeBron James would be entering NBA health and safety protocols. Vogel added the team then arranged for him to get safe transportation back to Los Angeles.
— Jason Anderson (@JandersonSacBee) December 1, 2021
As reported earlier as well, LeBron will need at least 10 days before he can return, which means he will be missing the Lakers' next four games, including the game against the Kings. He could be eligible to play against the Oklahoma City Thunder on December 10 once he clears the 10-day rule, but it's more likely he returns to the team on December 13 against the Orlando Magic given that he will need some time to get himself back to game shape.
With that said, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook will have to carry the load once again and try to keep the team in playoff contention while King James is recovering.
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