The New Orleans Pelicans have reportedly yet to administer any COVID-19 testing, according to Andrew Lopez of ESPN.
The Pelicans last played on March 8 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. They were about to play the Sacramento Kings the night Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for the coronavirus, but the game was called off.
Per Lopez, the Pelicans' traveling party has not shown symptoms and the team is committed to not having anyone tested in order to allow those who truly need tests to get them first:
The New Orleans Pelicans have yet to administer any COVID-19 testing, according to a source.
Team’s full traveling party has not shown symptoms and team is committed to not having anyone tested in order to allow those who truly need tests to get them first.
— Andrew Lopez (@_Andrew_Lopez) March 20, 2020
COVID-19 tests aren't easy to get. Most of the NBA teams have been getting them privately by paying top dollar or knowing people in high places.
Before the NBA suspended its season, the Pelicans were in 10th place in the Western Conference standings with a record of 28-36. If the season resumes, the Pelicans will be 3.5 games back of the Memphis Grizzlies for the 8th and final playoff spot out West.
Word is that NBA owners want to resume the season in the summer no matter what. Canceling the 2020 NBA playoffs altogether is said to be the last thing the NBA wants to see happen.
The Pelicans are 10-9 with rookie Zion Williamson in the lineup. The 2019 No. 1 overall pick missed the beginning of the season for the Pelicans after undergoing left knee surgery.
In 19 games for New Orleans, Zion is averaging 23.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 29.7 minutes while shooting 58.9 percent from the field, 46.2 percent from beyond the arc and 64.5 percent from the free-throw line.
Follow Us
Subscribe