Family Comes First; Kawhi Misses Game to Be With Evacuated Family

Kawhi Leonard, a 2x NBA champion and 2x Finals MVP, missed Wednesday night’s game against the Denver Nuggets to be with his family. His family was affected by the raging fires in California. The Clippers (Kawhi’s team) lost to the Nuggets by 23 without the all-stars help. However, Ty Lue didn’t seem to mind. In a press meeting before the game, Ty expressed how much he agreed with the actions Kawhi was taking to spend time with family. “You definitely have to take care of home. [Kawhi] Totally had my support 100%. Going back, checking on his family and kids, making sure they're well. And he got back, and they're doing OK, so just happy and thankful for that.” At least 11 people have lost their lives to the torching flames in L.A. and over 12,000 homes and buildings have been destroyed. 180,000 people (including the Leonard family) have evacuated their homes to ensure safety. Many people have lost power to try to eliminate sparks catching. The wildfires are fed by high speed winds and many people are risking their lives to try to help. Kawhi didn’t play his first game this season until the fourth, due to injury. He’s averaging 10 points per game. Condolences to him and his family.