OKC Thunder: 5 Key takeaways from players Q and A with Silver

Health and testing:

A key in getting games back on the hardwood is clearly tied to being able to test players. All prior estimates note the need for 15,000 tests to be available. Throughout the pandemic the NBA has stated definitively they won’t return until there are ample tests available for communities. Obviously, the NBA won’t consider moving forward until there are widespread tests available to meet the needs of all communities first.

As T.I. noted in a prior article it would seem the development of rapid test kits will be a practical way to test the players. Moreover, finding a vaccine will undoubtedly take precedence. Moreover, its unlikely fans will return to venues until a vaccine is developed and readily available.

In the short term Silver stated if a player tests positive for COVID-19 it won’t necessarily mean another season stoppage. Rather, the goal is to remove that player and perform frequent testing of the players/staff who came in direct contact with the individual.