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As uncertainty continues to surround the NBA and their potential return during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Orlando Magic are one of a few teams who could be getting closer to having their full team back together.
As the league continues to move forward and allow teams to have players back in their facilities, albeit at a limited capacity, the Magic, along with the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, will be allowed to test all players, and personnel for the virus. This, which according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski has been okayed by the league, is going to be something that is going to be specific to certain teams, if testing is readily available in the area.
Magic: "We have been assured we are not taking any tests from healthcare workers, 1st responders or anyone whether they are experiencing symptoms or asymptomatic. As we've been told, the general public in our community can go to numerous locations to receive a Coronavirus test." https://t.co/iJytuiO5IV
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 8, 2020
This is a big step for the Magic, and potentially the NBA.
Being able to test all players and staff, coupled with continued social distancing measures while in the facilities, opens up a lot of possibilities not only for the Magic, but the league as a whole. The ability to test players and staff could also open the league up to options for a potential return.
As has been floated out there by multiple people, including Yahoo! Sports’ Keith Smith, a return to Walt Disney World could give the league their best chance to finish the season. With the ability to put a “bubble” around players and staff on property, and the potential of having testing for everyone, it could lead to a return if the league were to choose that.
Either way, the Magic will be back on the court, even in limited fashion, on Monday, and will be able to test and ensure the safety of everyone invovled.