The NBA previously announced the postponement of Saturday’s Lakers-Spurs and Clippers-Hornets games due to the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. The latest update indicates that the Lakers and Clippers are expected to play their regularly scheduled games on Monday at Crypto.com Arena and the Intuit Dome, respectively. The Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs, and the Miami Heat will take on the Clippers.
It’s important to note that the situation remains fluid, and the NBA is constantly monitoring developments. Let’s hope that conditions will allow the games to be played as scheduled and that the focus remains on supporting the ongoing wildfire response efforts.
Lakers, Clippers To Resume Playing Home Games
The decision goes against a tentative plan laid out by a public safety official who was asked when it might be safe for live sporting events to resume in Los Angeles and they were not sure, adding, “I wouldn’t advise holding any large events that would require public safety resources and cause unneeded traffic before at least Wednesday.”
Approximately 105,000 residents remain under mandatory evacuation orders as multiple wildfires continue to rage across the region. The Palisades Fire has been particularly devastating, resulting in the destruction of over 5,600 structures across 24,000 acres. Tragically, at least 16 people have lost their lives due to the fires.
While it is far from the most important question facing the city, it begs the question if the NBA would consider moving the game to another arena, as the NFL did in the case of the Los Angeles Rams Wild Card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings that was moved to the Arizona Cardinals stadium in Glendale, Arizona rather than at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Los Angeles native and former Clipper Chris Paul cast a worried shadow over the Spurs’ Wednesday night loss in Milwaukee. With his wife and children evacuated from their home since Tuesday due to the wildfires, Paul expressed deep concern for the community.
“It’s a terrifying situation,” Paul said, his voice heavy with emotion. “Sending all my love and prayers to loved ones who’ve lost everything.”
The Spurs’ arrival in Los Angeles mirrored the city’s anxious mood. Landing shortly after the game, they initially checked into a Santa Monica hotel. However, precautionary measures necessitated a late-night relocation to a downtown Los Angeles hotel.
Kawhi Leonard took a short leave of absence to tend to his family amid the wildfires.
The NBA’s postponement of Thursday’s Lakers-Hornets game at Crypto.com Arena remains in effect, with a rescheduled date yet to be determined. Lakers coach JJ Redick, another victim of the fires, revealed last week that his Palisades home had been destroyed.
Looking ahead, the Lakers face a Wednesday matchup against the Heat at home, while the Clippers host the Brooklyn Nets after Monday’s games.