Los Angeles sports teams are taking precautions, moving and postponing events as firefighters continue to battle numerous wildfires around the region. The sheer devastation in some parts of the city is finally coming into focus, and several players, directly impacting coaches and their families.
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh addressed the media before the team left for its playoff game in Houston against the Texans.
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“Heart goes out and our prayers go out, abundant prayers, to all those that have been affected by this tragedy,” Harbaugh said. “And also, I’ve just been inspired greatly by the first responders and firefighters and residents that have had each other’s backs.”
The Los Angeles Rams are preparing for their NFL Wild Card game against the Minnesota Vikings, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13, in Inglewood, California. However, on Thursday evening, Jan. 9, the league announced that it had moved the game to Glendale, Arizona, just outside Phoenix “in the interests of public safety.”
In the interest of public safety, Monday's Wild Card game has been moved to Arizona.
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 10, 2025
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Rams head coach Sean McVay also answered questions Thursday afternoon after the team practiced.
“It’s one of those deals that doesn’t feel real, but it certainly is real to the people that are affected –– praying that as many people are okay –– and you just see the amount of people that are affected, and it’s one of those deals that gives you perspective,” McVay said.
The fire also affected Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick. It destroyed the home he was renting in Pacific Palisades.
According to city officials, it’s one of over 5,000 other structures burned to the ground in that community. Redick’s family was able to evacuate Wednesday night.
Like the LA Kings game Wednesday, Jan. 8, the Lakers game Thursday at Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles was postponed. No makeup date has been announced.
The NBA and NHL have also yet to decide on any of their games scheduled in the Los Angeles area over the weekend.
