Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick was among the many impacted by the wildfires currently devastating the Los Angeles area. Following the postponement of the Lakers’ game on Thursday, Redick shared with reporters the heart-wrenching experience of losing his family’s home in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, which was almost completely destroyed by the fires. Redick, who was away on a Lakers road trip when the fires struck, returned to Los Angeles to assess the damage firsthand, expressing shock and devastation at the loss of their home where they had lived since he started his coaching job the previous year.
Redick’s wife Chelsea managed to evacuate their nanny, secure a hotel, and take their children out of school as the fires approached. Redick, after getting some rest, visited the site of their former home and was confronted with the overwhelming destruction. He lamented the loss of cherished possessions and irreplaceable sentimental items, such as a framed art piece made by his son, reflecting on the emotional toll of the devastation.
In addition to Redick, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and several Lakers staff members and their families were also affected by the fires. The wildfire has spread to over 20,000 acres, displacing thousands of residents and leading to tragic fatalities. Despite the personal loss, Redick expressed deep sorrow for the tight-knit community in the Palisades that had welcomed and supported his family, emphasizing the profound impact of losing this sense of belonging.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by those less fortunate in the wake of the disaster, Redick vowed to assist those struggling financially due to the wildfires and highlighted the importance of community support during these trying times. As the wildfires continue to pose threats with ongoing high winds, Redick emphasized the resilience and unity needed to rebuild and aid those affected by the tragedy.
The full extent of the wildfires’ aftermath is still unfolding, with both the Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers adjusting their schedules as the region grapples with the ongoing impact of the devastating fires.
The game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings, scheduled for Monday night at SoFi Stadium, was postponed and relocated to Arizona.
