Toronto Raptors Big Man At Risk Of Coronavirus Seen Shopping, Apologizes After

The NBA season has been suspended as a precautionary measure against the novel coronavirus – causing teams to be strict with their protocol. The COVID-19 pandemic has infected thousands of lives and is continuing to affect more people. As the situation rapidly evolves, it’s best for everyone to follow the assigned procedure in these cases.

The sense of urgency increased when Utah Jazz players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell were tested positive of the coronavirus. The fact that the Jazz played several teams that week put the league at risk, especially the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, and the Toronto Raptors.

With how fast the schedule is in the league, the entire league is now under risk of the virus. In the last five days, all 30 teams are possibly connected already to the source.

True enough, just a few days later regarding the news of Gobert and Mitchell, Pistons' big man Christian Wood was also tested positive.

Hence the need to follow the protocol as one might be a carrier of the coronavirus. Given that these are athletes and have fantastic immune systems, some symptoms may not manifest as supposed to others. This puts those people around them at risk, especially the sick and the elderly.

Raptors' big man was photographed violating the self-quarantine protocol of the team, endangering those around him given that he had recent contact with someone who tested positive.

While he tested negative, it was still a violation of the standard procedure during this difficult situation. The 27-year-old has apologized for this issue through his Instagram stories per Sports Net. “I want to apologize to the city of Toronto, our fans and the Raptors organization,” he said.

“While I have tested negative for COVID-19, it was never my intention to endanger our community — I recognize my mistake and have remained self-quarantined since. Let’s stay safe Toronto.”

The season is currently on hiatus for the next three months as owners are looking at a mid-to-late June return on the court. The possibility of playing without fans will still continue as a safety measure for everyone.