The NBA's worst nightmare has occurred during the Atlanta All-Star Weekend, as two players participating in the game have been ruled out due to Coronavirus contact tracing.
Philadelphia 76ers' stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons have been ruled out to play in the All-Star Game, as they were in contact with a person who tested positive.
The exposure occurred with Embiid and Simmons‘ personal barber who had a positive test result.
The NBA is ruling out Embiid and Simmons for All-Star Game, source tells ESPN. https://t.co/PSiQ8xiOMo
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 7, 2021
ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski also reported Embiid and Simmons didn't have contact with any other players while in Atlanta.
New Orleans Pelicans, Zion Williamson will replace Joel Embiid as a starter on Team Durant and will become the 4th youngest player to start an All-Star Game behind only Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Magic Johnson.
Zion Williamson will replace Joel Embiid as a starter on Team Durant, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 7, 2021