NBA Releases Statement On Thursday's Los Angeles Lakers Game
Yesterday at 06:28 PM
The Los Angeles wildfires have displaced hundreds of thousands of citizens from their homes over the last few days. Acres of land have burned as three fires rage through the city and surrounding areas, with the Pacific Palisades fire causing the most damage.
As authorities continue to battle the fires, several events have been postponed as citizens continue to evacuate areas of the city. The Los Angeles Kings postponed their game against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday night, and the Los Angeles Lakers are evaluating their plans for their game against the Charlotte Hornets.
"We are in communication with the Lakers and Hornets and continue to closely monitor the situation to determine if any scheduling adjustments are necessary related to tomorrow night's game," NBA spokesman Mike Bass said on Wednesday, according to The Athletic's Sam Amick.
Regarding the LA fires and Thursday's Lakers game, NBA spokesman Mike Bass says…
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) January 8, 2025
"We are in communication with the Lakers and Hornets and continue to closely monitor the situation to determine if any scheduling adjustments are necessary related to tomorrow night's game."
LeBron James noted that he was "praying" for everyone in Los Angeles who was affected by the fire, and Lakers head coach JJ Redick also offered his well wishes to those in the area.
"I know that a lot of people are freaking out right now -- including my family -- and from the sound of things, with the winds coming tonight, I know a lot of people are scared," Redick said.
"So, just want to acknowledge that and thoughts and prayers, for sure. I hope everybody stays safe."
NBA reporter Chris Haynes noted that Clippers star Kawhi Leonard would be away from the team to tend to family members who were displaced by the fire.
To date, the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department says that at least five people have died as a result of the wildfires.
Over 1,000 structures in the area have been destroyed as a result of the fire, and millions around the area are without power.
"This is a highly dangerous windstorm that's creating extreme fire risk – and we're not out of the woods. We're already seeing the destructive impacts with this fire in Pacific Palisades that grew rapidly in a matter of minutes," said California Governor Gavin Newsom, who declared a state of emergency as the fires continued to grow in scope.
"Our deepest thanks go to our expert firefighters and first responders who jumped quickly into fighting this dangerous fire. If you're in Southern California, please pay attention to weather reports and follow any guidance from emergency officials."
Related: NBA Star Leaving Team To Be With Family During The Wildfires
