LOS ANGELES – Lakers center Marc Gasol has been ruled out against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night due to the NBA’s health and safety protocols, a team spokesman said.
Los Angeles has a two-game winning streak since the return of starting point guard Dennis Schroder, who had missed the Lakers’ previous four games – all losses – while sidelined for a breach of health and safety protocols. because of contact tracing.
Gasol, 36, was awarded a two-year contract in the off-season to join the defending champion. He has scored an average of 4.8 points and 4.1 rebounds this season.
Gasol’s absence could mean more playing time for center Damian Jones, who recently signed a ten-day contract and had eight points, three rebounds and two blocks in his team debut against Golden State. Jones is listed as likely for the Suns game with low back strain.