Hornets-Lakers game postponed due to Los Angeles wildfires

Field Level Media|published: Thu 9th January, 14:22 2025

Structures continue to burn on Jan. 8, 2025 in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood after a wildfire broke out in Los Angeles County on Jan. 7. The fires destroyed more than 1,000 homes, businesses and other structures, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said at a briefing Wednesday.

The NBA postponed Thursday's game between the Charlotte Hornets and host Lakers because of the wildfires in the Los Angeles area.

A new date for the game at Cryto.com Arena will be announced at a later time, the league said.

"The entire NBA family sends its thoughts and support to the community of Los Angeles during this challenging time," the NBA said in a statement on Thursday. "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."

The wildfires are the most destructive in the city's recorded history, according to Los Angeles' Wildfire Alliance. At least five people have been killed and thousands of structures have burned along with nearly 28,000 acres. More than 100,000 people overall have been ordered to evacuate their homes. Major fires have come after months without rain and hurricane-force winds gusting through the region.

The NHL's Los Angeles Kings postponed their home game against the Calgary Flames on Wednesday, with no date rescheduled at this time.

The NFL also is monitoring the situation with the Los Angeles Rams slated to host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night in an NFC wild-card playoff game. The league said Wednesday that the game is still on as scheduled but could be relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., home of the Arizona Cardinals.

--Field Level Media