Kawhi Leonard will be stepping away from the Los Angeles Clippers for a period of time to support family members who have been forced to evacuate from Los Angeles due to the wildfires. NBA Insider Chris Haynes was first to report.
There is no set date for when Leonard will be back in action.
Approximately 30,000 residents have received evacuation orders with more than 13,000 structures said to be under threat.
Leonard’s Recent Return
The 33-year-old superstar only just made his season debut, on Jan. 4 against the Atlanta Hawks. Leonard scored 12 points on 11 shots and showed clear signs of rust, though he did come through the game unscathed.
He played his second game of the season against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Jan. 6, finishing with eight points on 3-of-11 shooting. Whether it be his minutes restriction or struggles since returning, Leonard did not play the closing minutes of what was a tight finish and, ultimately, a 108-106 loss.
Leonard has hovered around the 20-minute mark in each of those two games.
Redick’s Family Evacuated
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed members of his family were also forced to evacuate from South California on Tuesday.
“I just want to acknowledge and send thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades right now, that’s where I live,” Redick said before the Lakers took on the Dallas Mavericks Tuesday night.
“Our family, my wife’s family, my wife’s twin sister, they’ve evacuated. I know a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family. From the sound of things, with the winds coming [Tuesday night], I know a lot of people are scared. So, I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe.”
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr also confirmed his 90-year-old mother, Ann, has had to evacuate.
“I want to send my thoughts and condolences to everybody in Los Angeles dealing with the fires,” Kerr said.
