There are cadre factions around the NBA who believe an expanded player pool could help the league weather a wave of virus-related postponements.
The league has postponed three matches over the last two days while a fourth had to be played with only seven healthy players among the mandatory minimum of eight on the team’s active roster.
Some team executives, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, hope to discuss the possibility of expanding rosters to stem deferrals. Teams can currently have 17 players – 15 on regular contracts and two players on two-way contracts, which allows a player to participate 45 days with the NBA team and the remainder of the season with its G League affiliate.
The NBA said it would meet with the players’ association later Monday to discuss changing the league’s rules. health and safety protocols. The NBA also reportedly met with general managers on Monday.
Lakers coach Frank Vogel was asked about the possibility before his team’s game on Sunday.
” It’s hard to say. The number of staff is already 17,” Vogel said. “I think and hope that situations where you are under eight are unique. And I leave that decision to the league, if they think it makes sense to expand the rosters.
The postponements around the NBA should serve as a wake-up call to his team, Vogel said.
“What has happened in recent days highlights how important it is for all of us to follow the protocols to the letter,” Vogel said. “Because if you really do that, it really minimizes the risk of spreading the virus, and that’s what we continue to stress to our guys.
