Coronavirus Cases Rise in the NBA

Recently, coronavirus cases have surged in the United States. The number of patients have increased exponentially over the past few days, leading to dire protocols and social distancing. This has been reflected in the world of sports. As of this week, 14 NBA players have tested positive for coronavirus. The most recent cases have been Marcus Smart, along with two unspecified players from the Lakers, one player from the Denver Nuggets, and three from the Philadelphia 76ers. Earlier in the week, four players from the Brooklyn Nets, including Kevin Durant, were revealed to have tested positive for the virus, following the first three cases, which were Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz along with the Pistons' Christian Wood.

All of these players are currently being quarantined. However, testing is still underway – as this pandemic continues, more cases will inevitably come to light as the league, and the country as a whole, desperately attempts to contain the situation. With the current delay potentially lasting weeks, even months, and the conclusion of the season in question, the NBA has been forced to consider significant alterations to their present format, including permanent changes to the schedule for the regular season. For now, though, players, staff, and fans will have to cope with these circumstances, and the uncertainty of the coming future.