Fires in Los Angeles: LA Lakers and LA Clippers return to NBA action
Players from the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers said it was “tough” for them to return to NBA action with the ongoing wildfires in the city.
Two Lakers games and one Clippers game were postponed, but Monday’s games resumed and both teams dedicated the night to the community and emergency services.
The Lakers lost to the San Antonio Spurs 126-102, while the Clippers beat the Miami Heat 109-98.
Fire crews in the Los Angeles area are still battling two large blazes, with fears of further outbreaks as a result of forecast high winds.
At least 24 people died in the fires, and 23 are missing. More than 90,000 people remain under evacuation orders while the Lakers coach JJ Redick is among those who lost their home in Palisades.
Lakers forward Anthony Davis had mixed emotions after finishing with 30 points and 13 rebounds as his team lost its third straight game.
“We were eager to play basketball again in front of our fans. It’s a shame we didn’t manage to win,” said the 31-year-old.
“I thought about it a lot. We go out and play and whether we win, lose or draw, this game is over and everything is still happening in the world.
“So, (it’s) bittersweet in a way because we still have people dealing with real-life situations. And we get to go out and play basketball. So it’s tough.”
2025-01-14 09:23:00
