Los Angeles wildfires force postponement of Lakers-Hornets game: 'We're with you, LA'

The game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets on Thursday was postponed due to ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles region.

The Lakers announced that the game has been postponed and urged fans to hold onto their tickets for the rescheduled date.

At least five people have died and over 27,000 acres have been burned in the California wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles County, officials report. Additionally, thousands of homes have been destroyed.

Like many others in the area, Lakers head coach JJ Redick lost his home, according to an ESPN report.

The Lakers expressed their heartbreak for Los Angeles in a statement on Thursday night, expressing their thoughts for all those affected by the unimaginable situation. They also expressed their gratitude towards the first responders and those who come together during difficult times.

"Tonight's game is being rescheduled to prioritize what's important today. We're here for you, LA."

The fires are also impacting other professional sports teams in Los Angeles, aside from the purple and gold ones.

If the fires persist in the Inglewood area, the Los Angeles Rams may play their wild-card game against the Minnesota Vikings at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, instead of their home, SoFi Stadium.

On Wednesday night, the NFL disclosed their contingency plan after stating they were keeping a close eye on the situation in Los Angeles.

The air quality index exceeded 280 as of Wednesday afternoon, classifying it as unhealthy with a reading of 150 or higher.

The Los Angeles Chargers, despite not hosting their own NFL playoff game at SoFi Stadium, restricted players' outdoor time during Wednesday's practice due to air quality. They will face the Houston Texans on Saturday afternoon to begin Wild Card Weekend.

On Wednesday night, the Chargers made a commitment to contribute $200,000 towards wildfire relief efforts in the region.

On Thursday, LA County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone declared that the Eaton Fire, which resulted in the loss of at least five lives, has experienced a "significant halt" in its growth.

The Palisades Fire, which is still 0% contained, is considered one of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of Los Angeles, according to LA City Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley.

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