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Report: Kawhi Leonard Steps Away from Clippers After Family Was Affected by Wildfires

Scott Polacek

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is reportedly stepping away from the team to be with members of his family who were affected by the ongoing wildfires in the L.A. area.

NBA insider Chris Haynes broke the news Wednesday, noting that some of Leonard's family was forced to evacuate because of the wildfires.

The Clippers are scheduled to face the Denver Nuggets on the road at 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday.

Elsewhere in the sports world, Wednesday night's NHL game between the host Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames was postponed:

The NFL released a statement Wednesday that said it "continues to closely monitor developments in the area and will remain in contact with both clubs and the NFLPA" ahead of Monday's scheduled playoff game between the visiting Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters on Tuesday that members of his family were among those who evacuated their homes.

"I just want to acknowledge and send thoughts and prayers to everyone in the Palisades right now," Redick said. "That's where I live.

"Our family, my wife's family, my wife's twin sister, they've evacuated. I know a lot of people are freaking out right now, including my family. From the sound of things, with the winds coming [Tuesday night], I know a lot of people are scared. So I just want to acknowledge that. Thoughts and prayers for sure, and hope everybody stays safe."

According to CNN, tens of thousands of people were placed under evacuation orders across Los Angeles County due to multiple wildfires that were exacerbated by high winds. Officials said at least two people have died, while thousands of structures and acres have been destroyed.

As for Leonard, he returned to the Clippers' lineup for Saturday's game against the Atlanta Hawks and also played in Monday's contest against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He missed the team's first 34 games of the season because of a right knee injury.

   

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