NHL postpones Kings-Flames game over devastating California wildfires
A scheduled NHL game between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames at the Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday night had to be postponed due to the wildfires that have been devastating Southern California. Both teams are part of the NHL’s Pacific Division, and the game was supposed to start at 7:30 p.m. PT. However, the teams will have another chance to face off in Calgary on Saturday. The Kings will also be playing against the Winnipeg Jets on Friday.
The matchup on Saturday would have been the final game between the two teams for the 2024-25 season. The league released a statement saying, “In light of the devastating effects of the wildfires in the Los Angeles area, tonight’s game between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames at Crypto.com Arena, NHL Game No. 653, has been postponed. 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 wildfires in Southern California have been causing widespread destruction since Tuesday, with multiple fires burning across the region. Tragically, several people have lost their lives, and over 1,000 structures have been destroyed. Aircraft were finally able to resume dropping water on the fires after being grounded by high winds. By Wednesday morning, as many as five fires were raging in the area.
The first fire started near a nature preserve in the inland foothills northeast of Los Angeles, while another broke out in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood. A third fire ignited in the San Fernando Valley around 10:30 p.m. PT, with two more fires occurring on Wednesday morning.
As the situation continues to unfold, the NFL is also monitoring the wildfires to determine whether any action needs to be taken regarding the playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings, scheduled for Monday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
The impact of the wildfires on sporting events underscores the severity of the situation in Southern California. Our thoughts are with all those affected by these devastating fires.
