Impact of California Wildfires on Sports: Los Angeles Kings Postponement
California is currently facing devastating wildfires, which have led to evacuations and destruction in the Los Angeles region.
According to Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, over 1,000 homes, businesses, and other buildings have been lost to the flames. Many residents who chose to stay behind sustained significant injuries, as did first responders working on the front lines.
The National Hockey League (NHL) has postponed the game between the Los Angeles Kings and the Calgary Flames, and additional scheduling adjustments in professional and collegiate sports may be forthcoming.
Here’s an update on how the wildfires are influencing sports events in Southern California:
Postponement of the Los Angeles Kings Game
The NHL has announced the postponement of the LA Kings game against the Calgary Flames, originally scheduled for Wednesday.
“Due to the severe impact of the wildfires in the Los Angeles region, the Kings vs. Flames game at Crypto.com Arena, NHL Game No. 653, is postponed,” stated the NHL. “Our thoughts are with the Kings, their fans, and the community of Los Angeles in this challenging time.”
A rescheduled date will be provided when details are confirmed.
On Monday night, the LA Rams are set to face the Minnesota Vikings in an NFC wild-card game at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
“The NFL is keeping a close watch on the situation and will maintain communication with both teams and the NFLPA,” the league mentioned in a statement.
The Lakers are preparing to host the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday and the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Clippers will begin a three-game home series against the Hornets on Saturday.
NBA Coaches Confirm Family Safety
Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick reported that his family is safe after evacuating their homes this week due to the wildfires sweeping through the area.
The fires have led to destruction in various suburbs, including Pacific Palisades, where Redick resides. The Lakers recently concluded a two-game Texas trip and are set to play the Charlotte Hornets at home on Thursday.
“I just want to express my concern and prayers for everyone in the Palisades area right now,” Redick stated. “That’s my home.”
“Our family, including my wife’s family and her twin sister, have all evacuated. Many people, including my family, are understandably anxious right now, especially with the winds picking up (Tuesday night). I want to recognize this and send my thoughts and prayers for everyone’s safety.”
Similarly, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr shared Tuesday night that his 90-year-old mother also had to evacuate.
“I want to extend my thoughts and condolences to everyone in Los Angeles affected by the wildfires,” Kerr remarked after his team’s 114-98 loss against the Miami Heat. “My mom lives in Pacific Palisades and had to leave her home.”
As of now, two fatalities have been reported, evacuation orders are in place for 30,000 residents, and over 13,000 buildings remain at risk from the ongoing fires, which are fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds reaching over 80 miles per hour.
(This story has been updated with additional details.)