L.A. wildfires force postponement of Kings' NHL game

As several devastating wildfires tear through the Los Angeles area, the NHL is postponing Wednesday's game between the Kings and Calgary Flames. Jose Huerta / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Los Angeles-area wildfires force postponement of Kings' NHL game

By Austen Bundy | Last updated Jan 8, 2025 3:48 PM ET

As several devastating wildfires tear through the Los Angeles area, the NHL is prioritizing the safety of residents and players by agreeing to postpone Wednesday's game between the Kings and Calgary Flames.

The league and team posted statements announcing the news to X, with a makeup date for the contest yet to be confirmed.

"The thoughts of the entire NHL family are with the Kings, hockey fans and the people of the Los Angeles area during this difficult time," the league statement read in part.

Tonight's @NHLFlames at @LAKings game has been postponed. https://t.co/hrag2w5bYl pic.twitter.com/6AIV173N3q
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) January 8, 2025

Stay safe, Los Angeles pic.twitter.com/fMvpMJmSRL
— LA Kings (@LAKings) January 8, 2025

"Our hearts are with our entire Los Angeles community," the Kings' statement read in part. "We appreciate the hard-working First Responders who are diligently working to contain the fire and protect our community."

According to the Associated Press, more than 1,000 structures have been destroyed, and at least two people are dead as a result of the quickly spreading flames.

Four major fires span from the Pacific coast to Pasadena, home of the famed Rose Bowl, already played on Jan. 1.

A map of where the 4 major wildfires are burning across Los Angeles. Palisades Fire, Hurst Fire, Eaton Fire and now the newly started Woodley Fire. The Woodley Fire is burning in a very populated area near the 101/405 intersection. Winds are gusting 50-70mph. https://t.co/4m2wtXNboI pic.twitter.com/q27YaNpbcF
— Drew Tuma (@DrewTumaABC7) January 8, 2025

Other Los Angeles-based sports teams have not been affected yet by the infernos. The NBA's Clippers and NHL's Anaheim Ducks are both currently on the road.

However, it's unclear if Thursday's Lakers game against the Charlotte Hornets will be impacted.

The NFL playoffs will kick off this weekend, with the Chargers traveling to Houston on Saturday to face the Texans and the Rams hosting the Minnesota Vikings on Monday.

Sofi Stadium is located in Inglewood, roughly 22 miles Southeast of the nearest wildfire. The NFL said Wednesday that it is monitoring the situation, but no further update has been given on whether that Wild Card round matchup will be affected.

Austen Bundy

Austen Bundy is a journalist and sports junkie from the Washington, D. C. area

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