As NBA teams prepare to fly to Orlando, Fla. for the start of training camp, one team has hit an obstacle.
The Los Angeles Clippers have shuttered their practice facility after someone in the organization tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
After a positive test for the coronavirus in the Los Angeles Clippers traveling party headed to Orlando next week, the organization closed its practice facility to players and staff as a precaution today, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 3, 2020
The Clippers are one of a few teams that are considered legitimate contenders for the NBA championship once the 2019-20 season resumes later this month.
They have ensured a season where a number of players have been in and out of the lineup due to minor injuries and load management.
In addition, the Clippers, despite ranking fifth in defensive efficiency, have looked weak at times on the defensive end. They have given up at least 120 points in 14 of their 64 games this season and have surrendered 119 points in four other games.
Yet, the Clippers have a 44-20 record and great chance of securing the second seed in the Western Conference.
Come playoff time, the team feels very confident about its chances of winning the organization’s first-ever NBA title. Its best player, Kawhi Leonard, is coming off winning the championship and Finals MVP a year ago, and will benefit from the four-month hiatus.
