Los Angeles Teams Resume Play as City Faces Fire Aftermath
The NBA's Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers are set to make their return to the court this Monday following a pause in the season. The temporary halt came as a consequence of devastating fires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles County, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
The Lakers will meet the San Antonio Spurs at the Crypto.com Arena, while the Clippers are slated to host the Brooklyn Nets at the Intuit Dome. The NHL's Los Angeles Kings, who share a venue with the Lakers, had previously postponed their game against the Calgary Flames due to the same catastrophic conditions.
A City in Crisis
The fires have resulted in severe human and structural losses, claiming an estimated 16 lives and destroying more than 12,000 buildings. For those fleeing the flames, the ordeal has been nothing short of harrowing, with approximately 150,000 residents forced to evacuate their homes.
The fires have not spared members of the NBA community. Lakers' coach JJ Redick's rental home was one of the many structures razed to the ground. Speaking candidly about the devastation, Redick shared, "I was not prepared for what I saw. It's complete devastation and destruction. I had to go kind of a different way to the house, but I went through most of the village and it's all gone. I don't think you can ever prepare yourself for something like that."
Personal Losses for Coaches and Players
The fires have touched the lives of more than just Coach Redick. Steve Kerr, head coach of the Golden State Warriors, also encountered personal loss as his childhood home succumbed to the fires. Fortunately, his 90-year-old mother was evacuated safely before the disaster struck, highlighting the heavy burden these fires have imposed on the community.
Kawhi Leonard of the Clippers took a temporary leave from basketball to support his family during the crisis. His return to the team was marked by his season debut on January 4, providing a morale boost for his teammates amid trying circumstances.
Rescheduling Challenges
The fires have also wreaked havoc on the NBA schedule, resulting in the postponement of several key matchups, including the Lakers' clashes against the Charlotte Hornets and the Spurs, as well as the Clippers' game versus the Hornets. These games are yet to be rescheduled, creating additional uncertainty for teams and fans alike.
As Los Angeles gradually begins the arduous process of recovery, the return of professional sports offers a semblance of normalcy and a momentary escape for a community deeply affected by disaster. Yet, as the Lakers and Clippers take to the court once more, the profound impact of recent events remains an undeniable part of the narrative that this city must confront.