The Los Angeles Kings were thinking about friends and family in wildfire-ravaged California as they began an eight-day road trip starting in Winnipeg.
Players found it challenging to focus on hockey with major fires devastating neighborhoods in the Los Angeles area.
Trevor Moore, the Kings' lone California native, received heartbreaking updates from loved ones affected by the fires.
Moore expressed how hard it is to witness the devastation caused by the fires, especially seeing childhood homes of friends and family being destroyed.
Teammate Phillip Danault shared his emotional farewell to his family before leaving for Manitoba, acknowledging the sacrifice they make as players.
Players from both teams, the Kings and the Jets, showed solidarity by wearing Los Angeles Fire Department stickers on their helmets during the game.
The Kings' head coach, Jim Hiller, emphasized the impact of the fires on everyone, urging the team to play with their community in mind.
Amid uncertainties about the fires' containment, players remain hopeful and aim to provide a source of distraction and entertainment for those affected back home.
Despite the challenges, the Kings are determined to stay focused and play for their community during this difficult time.