The NBA postponed Thursday’s game between the Charlotte Hornets and host Lakers because of the wildfires in the Los Angeles area that have claimed over 1,000 structures in a total that reportedly includes the home of Lakers head coach JJ Redick.
ESPN reported Thursday that Redick’s rental home in Pacific Palasades was lost in the biggest of multiple fires raging in the area that have been fueled by to intense winds and low humidity.
Redick addressed the threat to his home before Tuesday’s 118-97 road loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
“I just want to acknowledge and send thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades right now,” Redick said at the time. “It’s where I live. My family and my wife’s family, my wife’s twin sister, they’ve evacuated. I know that a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family. … I know a lot of people are scared. So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure. I hope everybody stays safe.”
A new date for Thursday’s game at Cryto.com Arena will be announced at a later time, the league said.
“The entire NBA family sends its thoughts and support to the community of Los Angeles during this challenging time,” the NBA said in a statement on Thursday. “We are grateful for the thousands of local firefighters and first responders who have demonstrated enormous bravery. Our prayers remain with those affected by the unimaginable devastation caused by the wildfires.”
The wildfires are the most destructive in the city’s recorded history, according to Los Angeles’ Wildfire Alliance. At least five people have been killed and thousands of structures have burned along with nearly 28,000 acres. More than 100,000 people overall have been ordered to evacuate their homes. Major fires have come after months without rain and hurricane-force winds gusting through the region.
“We are heartbroken for Los Angeles,” the Lakers said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other most. … We’re with you, LA.”
The NHL’s Los Angeles Kings postponed their home game against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday, with no date rescheduled at this time.
The NFL also is monitoring the situation with the Los Angeles Rams slated to host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night in an NFC wild-card playoff game. The league said Wednesday that the game is still on as scheduled but could be relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., home of the Arizona Cardinals.
–Field Level Media
