NBA says Lakers star LeBron James violated protocols by attending event

After missing more than a month with an ankle injury, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James could've missed one of the most important games of the season for a completely different reason. 

According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, an NBA spokesperson said that James violated the league's health and safety protocols earlier this week. The four-time NBA champion attended a promotional event for a tequila he has invested in. The event took place before the Lakers played the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament. 

People who attended the event had to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or supply a negative COVID test. It's unclear if James is vaccinated. 

The league spokesperson also told McMenamin the issue was addressed with the Lakers: "It's a violation of the agreed upon protocols, and, as we have in other comparable instances around the league, it has been addressed with the team."

James played against the Warriors, notching a triple-double to help the Lakers clinch a playoff spot. With L.A. now set to begin the first round against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, James' availability won't be in question. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, he will not be suspended for violating protocols.