:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68686517/1230572285.0.jpg)
The Washington Wizards have a seventh player test positive for the coronavirus, and a staff member has also tested positive, according to Ava Wallace of The Washington Post.
The Wizards have had a seventh player test positive, per sources, and one staff member. No staff had tested positive before now.
— Ava Wallace (@avarwallace) January 18, 2021
Wizards brought eligible players in for individual work over the weekend but haven't gathered as a group since last Monday.
Ultimately, that also means that their game against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday, Jan. 20 is postponed. The team announced that earlier this afternoon.
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) January 18, 2021
The Wizards were to begin a road trip this week, but given their outbreak, it is best to keep everyone at home until further notice.
There is also more information about when the Wizards could be ready to practice and play again. Adrian Wojnarowski reported that there are six players who didn’t test positive and are not in coronavirus protocols. The team may be able to practice as soon as Wednesday.
There's hope the Wizards -- with six healthy players now -- could practice again as soon as Wednesday, source tells ESPN. Although they've had seven positive tests among players, some could soon be cleared to play again. Wizards haven't played a game or practiced in a full week.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 18, 2021
One of the easiest ways for the coronavirus to spread is when people travel extensively. Washington was going to begin a four-game road trip this Wednesday which would end on Jan. 29 when they host the Atlanta Hawks. That would also be two weeks after the team started getting positive tests. That may be the time when Washington is able to play at close to full strength again.