NBA commissioner Adam Silver to miss Game 5 of NBA Finals due to health and safety protocols

The Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics will meet for Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night with the series tied.

A familiar face will be missing from that contest, but it's one who doesn't compete for either team. 

According to The Associated Press (h/t ESPN), NBA commissioner Adam Silver will not be able to attend Game 5 of the Finals, as planned, because of the league's health and safety protocols related to COVID-19. It's unclear if Silver tested positive for COVID-19 or was deemed a high-risk close contact of an infected person. No additional update on Silver's health was provided. 

This is the second time that COVID-19 has impacted the NBA Finals regarding off-the-court matters. Hall of Fame sportscaster Mike Breen, fellow announcer Jeff Van Gundy and ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski were all previously sidelined because of health and safety protocols. 

The AP adds that it's unknown when Silver will be cleared to resume attending official events such as games. Typically, he would present the Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy to the winners of the NBA Finals, and a champion could be determined when the Celtics host the Warriors on Thursday night.

Game 7, if necessary, will take place Sunday night in San Francisco.