Kawhi Leonard has taken some time off from basketball for a while to safeguard his family during the devastating wildfires across Southern California. Large swaths of the region were ravaged, forcing Leonard’s family to leave their Pacific Palisades home earlier in the week.
Tens of thousands have been displaced around Southern California. The wildfires-the fuel for which has been high winds with dry conditions on the ground-have torched more than 15,000 acres, consumed approximately 1,000 structures, and even claimed at least two lives to date. As described by local officials, it truly has been one of those worst wildfire instances to happen here in recent history. Evacuation orders issue across Los Angeles County, which means whole areas are forced under dire circumstances from their homes in this area.
Among those included is two-time NBA Finals MVP and Clippers franchise cornerstone Kawhi Leonard. Leonard’s family, which includes his wife and children, was evacuated from their mansion in the fire-ravaged region of Pacific Palisades. Thankfully, his family reportedly is safe, and Leonard is home to check in on them personally.
This comes at a very critical time in Leonard’s career. Just recently starting to get back into the lineup for the Clippers after an extended recovery from offseason knee surgery, Leonard has now put his family first over his professional duties. Leonard sat out Wednesday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets and is undetermined for a return to the court.
The wildfires have affected sports in Southern California on many fronts, not solely Leonard’s absence. A scheduled NHL matchup between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames was canceled because of the travel concern for players and fans alike. Likewise, the NFL is monitoring conditions with a possible adjustment in this weekend’s playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings. Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick, whose wife’s family also evacuated the area, said: “My thoughts and prayers go out to all the people who have suffered through this tragedy. Terrifying time for so many families.” Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr added, “Terrifying. Pray for all of those in Hawaii and all who have been displaced by the fire. Please support relief efforts.”.
Reactions to the move by Leonard have been divided, though the overriding feeling is that of comprehension and sympathy. Fans understand that family comes first, especially in times of crisis. Support messages for Leonard have flooded social media, while many have applauded him for standing with his loved ones during this trying moment. Clippers fans, though they were sad with the absence, have largely stood by their star player, with many saying that “family comes first.”.
At the moment, wildfires have not seen NBA authorities postpone any matchups. However, the league acknowledges in writing to CBS Sports it will continue closely monitoring the air. Their league officials state support for its players and the teams affected because of the whole crisis and is said ready to act regarding actions taking some severe turns. Therefore, the rest of the clipper schedule presently continues, bringing up with hosting the Nuggets and Charlotte Hornets over the two coming games, in that specific order.
As for Kawhi Leonard, there is no timeline for his return. The Clippers’ coaching staff and teammates have been very supportive of his decision, pointing out that mental health and family are important in times of crisis. But against the unending fighting of field fires in Southern California, Leonard adds to putting a humane face on Professional Sports. With great humility comes the touching case where even the celebrity athlete is unable to escape that test that haunts his tribe day and night.
