PLAYA VISTA, Calif. -- LA Clippers star Paul George has tested positive for COVID-19, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Tim Bontemps, and he will miss the Friday night play-in game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank confirmed that George has entered the league's health and safety protocols.

This is a significant blow to the Clippers, who lose their star guard -- again -- as they try to clinch the No. 8 seed for the Western Conference playoffs in the elimination game vs. the Pelicans. The winner advances to a first-round matchup against the top-seeded Phoenix Suns.

Frank said that George did not feel well Thursday and underwent testing.

"This is another challenge for our group," Frank said at the team shootaround. "The group has dealt with challenges all year. We've had guys in and out of the lineup and dealt with overcoming large deficits and yet this group has always responded. A very resilient group. We have a great deal of faith and a talented and deep roster and have a great coach in Ty Lue."

The Clippers will once again be without both of their stars. Kawhi Leonard remains out as he rehabs a torn ACL and has not played a single minute this season. Frank said there is still no timetable for Leonard's return.

Original publication by Ohm Youngmisuk, ESPN Staff Writer:

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33743708/la-clippers-paul-george-tests-positive-covid-19-miss-play-game-vs-new-orleans-pelicans-sources-say