Phoenix Suns Say Guard Chris Paul Is In NBA's COVID-19 Protocols

PHOENIX, AZ — Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul's status for the upcoming NBA Western Conference finals is up in the air, as he's in the NBA's health and safety protocols for COVID-19, the team announced Wednesday.

The 36-year-old must sit out an indefinite period of time, making his return questionable for the series against the winner of the Utah Jazz-L.A. Clippers series, which will start either on Sunday or Tuesday, depending on the other side of the bracket result.

The Suns released the following statement on Wednesday morning:

"Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul is currently out due to health and safety protocols. The next update on his status will be provided on Saturday, June 19."

Losing Paul would be a blow to the Suns' championship chances, with the veteran guard averaging 25.5 points and 10.3 assists per game during the team's four-game sweep over the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference semifinals.