Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Josh Giddey has been cleared from the NBA’s health and safety protocol and could return to play on Sunday versus the Dallas Mavericks.
Giddey was among at least seven individuals on the team sidelined after entering the protocol on Dec. 28. The Thunder went 1-2 without Giddey in the lineup and will now move on without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after he entered the protocol on Saturday.
Players and coaches entered into the health and safety protocol who are vaccinated can now be cleared to return after six days, compared to the previous 10-day isolation period. Individuals can still be cleared sooner if they return two negative PCR tests at least 24 hours apart.
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Giddey, who was named the Western Conference Rookie of the Month for October/November, is averaging 10.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists in 30 games this season. He leads all first-year players in assists while he is second in rebounds and double-doubles.
The NBA is in the middle of its most challenging stretch of the season as players and teams alike battle the latest wave within the coronavirus pandemic. More than 200 players entered the health and safety protocol in December, and 11 games were postponed.
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