Los Angeles, CA — Celebrities, hockey legends, and first responders came together on Sunday afternoon at Crypto.com Arena for “Skate for LA Strong,” an exhibition hockey event aimed at raising funds for those affected by the devastating Southern California wildfires, including the historic Palisades Fire, the most destructive in Los Angeles history.
The charity event, organized by the Los Angeles Kings and the National Hockey League (NHL), featured star-studded teams with players like Justin Bieber, Steve Carell, and Hockey Hall of Famers Rob Blake, Mark Messier, Cammi Granato, and Jeremy Roenick.
“We’re looking to have a good time and show that when we come together, good things happen,” said Bieber before hitting the ice.
Luc Robitaille’s Vision for Community Support
The event was spearheaded by Luc Robitaille, Kings President and Hockey Hall of Famer, who emphasized the importance of supporting those affected by the wildfires.
“We’ve all been touched by what happened last month. We have friends, family, or others who have been impacted. For us to raise as much as possible and make a difference means everything,” Robitaille said.
Star-Studded Coaches Lead Exhibition Teams
The tournament featured four celebrity-coached teams, adding excitement and fun to the charity effort:
- Vince Vaughn and Cobie Smulders (Winning Team)
- Snoop Dogg and Will Ferrell
- Danny DeVito and Al Michaels
- Hannah Stocking and Andrew Whitworth
The team coached by Vaughn and Smulders dominated the competition, winning both of their games to take home the exhibition trophy.
On-Ice Fun: Bieber vs. Roenick
The event wasn’t short on entertainment, with Jeremy Roenick scoring two goals and later engaging in a playful scuffle with Justin Bieber.
“This was an amazing celebration of hockey and first responders,” Roenick said. “It was a lot of fun, seeing everyone that showed up and having some LA firefighters play was a good feeling.”
A Community United: Stories of Resilience
Actor Skylar Astin, who lives in Malibu, reflected on the personal impact of the wildfires and his gratitude for the firefighters’ efforts.
“I don’t care if I’d never thrown on a pair of skates before, this is where I want to be,” Astin said. “Driving the Pacific Coast Highway, seeing all the destruction firsthand, it was really chilling. But LA is a resilient community, and I know we’ll rebuild.”
Tickets for First Responders and Displaced Residents
In a heartfelt gesture, tickets for “Skate for LA Strong” were distributed to first responders and those displaced by the fires, honoring those who risked their lives to protect the community and those most affected by the tragedy.
