To avoid taking resources away from the wildfire response, the NBA postponed the Lakers’ game against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday and the Lakers and Clippers’ home games on Saturday.
However, both teams were getting ready to host games on Monday: the Clippers vs. Miami Heat and the Lakers against. San Antonio Spurs.
To help individuals impacted by the fires, the Lakers stated that they would be holding a donation drive at their next games at Crypto.com Arena “beginning Monday.” Fans are urged to donate both food and non-food items.
At Clippers practice, Lue was asked if coach believed that playing in Monday’s games was the correct decision, given that over 100,000 people are still under evacuation orders.
Lue remarked, “It’s above my pay grade.” “The NBA, in my opinion, has a solid grasp of what’s happening and what they must do. Thus, they decide.
They are aware that California is currently going through a difficult period, and they comprehend it.
“With the game returning tomorrow, hopefully we can bring some sort of joy,” he continued, “trying to put some smiles on people’s faces in tough times.”
Despite describing the “complete devastation” in his neighborhood, Lakers coach JJ Redick, whose home was among those damaged in the Palisades fire, had stated much the same this week.
Training sessions have been held by both sides despite players, coaches, and other staff members having been affected.
Authorities issued a warning on Sunday that there was a possibility of “extreme fire behavior and life-threatening conditions” due to the prediction of strong winds starting again on Tuesday.
Officials were trying to stop looting, while search and rescue efforts were just getting started in communities devastated by fire.
“It’s really challenging,” Lue remarked. “People are losing their homes, their schools, and their lives.” Because life is bigger than basketball, it’s really hard to concentrate on the game.
