As case numbers for the omicron variant increase throughout the nation, the NBA has scrambled to find the best way to handle the uptick in cases in the league while still letting games continue as regularly scheduled. The Dallas Mavericks have struggled heavily with remaining healthy and have had to sign a variety of 10 day contracts to ensure a full roster. The Mavs played with 8 players in health and safety protocol in their game against the Sacramento Kings on New Years Eve. Now, in an effort to get players out of health and safety protocol even quicker, the NBA has updated its covid protocol. Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news in the following tweet:
The new protocol applies to assymptomatic and vaccinated players only. As mentioned a higher CT value, or cycle threshold value, means that you are less likely to be contagious.
The rule change comes one day after Golden State Warrior power forward, Draymond Green, took to Twitter to call out the inconsistencies of the NBA during this period especially with the cancellations of games.
While the upside of the new protocol is obvious there is still a concern that players who return to the court too soon will infect those around them and spread the virus further, putting the health of the players at greater risk. The Mavs next game is January 2nd at 6 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Luka Doncic, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Maxi Kleber all cleared health and safety protocol on January 1st and are expected to play.