Lakers postpone Hornets game as coach JJ Reddick loses home in LA wildfires

The NBA postponed Thursday’s game between the Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets in Los Angeles due to the wildfires in the region, but the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams still expect their home game on Monday to go ahead.

The disaster killed at least five people, burned thousands of structures and ordered nearly 180,000 people to evacuate their homes. Lakers head coach JJ Redick lost his home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles to the fires. ESPN reported this on Thursday.

“We are heartbroken for Los Angeles,” the Lakers said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this unimaginable situation. And our gratitude goes out to the first responders and all of you who come together when we need each other most.”

New Zealand women’s national football team captain Ali Riley, who plays for NWSL side Angel City FC, said her home was among those burned in the Palisades fire.

“This was our home. How is this real? It can’t be real,” Riley posted on X, with a photo of a burned-out neighborhood.

Five-time Olympic swimming champion Gary Hall Jr. managed to escape the Palisades fire with his dog, his insulin and a few personal items before his rented home was lost in the blaze.

“He has most likely lost his 10 Olympic medals as well, but nothing can take away the spirit that won those medals,” according to a GoFundMe page set up for Hall.

The Rams said their wild-card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings remains scheduled for Monday night at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. The team previously said the game would be moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, if necessary.

“The safety of the LA community is our top priority,” the Rams said. “As with all games, the NFL has contingency plans in place should a change of venue be necessary.”