Al Horford clears health and safety protocols; Will Celtics center return in Game 2 vs. Heat?

Ahead of the Eastern Conference Finals, the Celtics were dealt a few major blows.

Hours before the series opener, it was announced that starting center Al Horford had entered the league's COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Horford has since been cleared for Game 2.

#NEBHInjuryReport update:

Al Horford - AVAILABLE https://t.co/wmOKz3DqyW

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 19, 2022

Horford, 35, has turned back the clock during the 2022 NBA Playoffs, posting averages of 13.0 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists on .524/.451/.833 shooting splits through Boston's first 11 playoff games. A vintage 30-point performance in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals had a large role in the Celtics advancing to the East Finals.

When will Horford be able to return to the floor? Here is everything you need to know about his status and the NBA's health and safety protocols.

How did Al Horford clear the NBA's Health and Safety Protocols?

With respect to Horford, Wojnarowski added that the Celtics have been testing Horford with hopes of him exiting health and safety protocols.

The Celtics have continued testing Al Horford with the hope that he can exit health and safety protocols prior to Game 2, sources said. https://t.co/qiKZDY67hH

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) May 19, 2022

Yahoo's Chris Haynes provided an explanation of how Horford could return after a positive COVID-19 test:

Regarding a return to play from a positive COVID-19 test, there is a third avenue that went into effect on April 30. https://t.co/rJ4qwWIJr2 pic.twitter.com/uxvleWWa4P

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 19, 2022

Horford's return for Game 2 means he either produced two negative COVID-19 tests within a 24-hour period or produced two negative COVID-19 tests on the day of Game 2.

Celtics vs. Heat series schedule

Here is the full schedule for the 2022 Eastern Conference Finals.

*If necessary