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Report: Pacers' Caris LeVert to miss play-in game vs. Hornets for NBA's COVID-19 protocols

Indiana Pacers guard Caris LeVert is expected to miss Tuesday's play-in game vs. the Charlotte Hornets because of the NBA's COVID-19 health and safety protocols, The Athletic's Shams Charania reports.

Neither the Pacers nor LeVert have announced what prompted him to be placed in the league's protocols. His placement in protocols does not mean the LeVert has tested positive for COVID-19. He's expected to remain in protocols for 10 to 14 days, according to the report.

LeVert is Indiana's second-leading scorer, averaging 20.7 points, 4.9 assists and four rebounds while shooting 44.3% from the field and 31.8% from 3-point distance since joining the Pacers lineup in March.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - APRIL 29: Caris LeVert #22 of the Indiana Pacers brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on April 29, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Caris LeVert won't be available for Tuesday's elimination game against Charlotte. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

LeVert had cancer surgery in January

LeVert arrived in Indiana from the Brooklyn Nets via the James Harden trade in January. Upon his arrival, an MRI revealed a cancerous mass on his left kidney. LeVert required surgery to remove the mass and was able to return to basketball cancer free on March 13.

The loser of Tuesday's Pacers-Hornets game will be eliminated from the postseason. Indiana will host the game as the No. 9 seed against the 10th-seeded Hornets. The winner will advance to face the loser between the Boston Celtics and Washington Wizards in the Eastern Conference's other play-in game. The winner of that game will earn the No. 8 seed in the playoffs while the loser will be eliminated.

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