The NBA has postponed Thursday night’s game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets game at Crypto.com Arena due to wildfires that have consumed the Los Angeles area.
A new date for the game has not been confirmed.
In confirming the postponement, the league also released a statement:
“The entire NBA family sends its thoughts and support to the community of Los Angeles during this challenging time. 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.”
Basketball Irrelevant In Los Angeles Right Now
Thursday is the third day of the fires, with nearly 30,000 acres of land impacted by five active fires in Los Angeles. At least 10,000 structures are estimated to have been affected.
In Hollywood Hills — close to the entertainment industry — what started as a brush fire on Wednesday evening has since been named the Sunset Fire and burned more than 40 acres of vegetation. It was contained as of Thursday morning.
The Palisades fire is already considered the most destructive in Los Angeles history.
Approximately 180,000 people are under evacuation orders.
J.J. Redick Loses Home
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Lakers head coach JJ Redick lost his home as a result of the wildfires.
Earlier, it was reported former Laker and NBA champion Lamar Odom was forced to evacuate Wednesday night after a blaze emerged near his home.
The Lakers also released their own statement on the tragedy:
We’re with you, LA 💜 pic.twitter.com/PoROo4ycd9
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 9, 2025
“We’re heartbroken for Los Angeles. Our thoughts are with those impacted by the unimaginable situation. And our gratitude is with the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other the most. Tonight’s game will be rescheduled to focus on what matters most today. We’re with you, L.A.”
