NBA Playoffs: Which superstar has the most to win and lose?

May 10, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Cavaliers Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with teammates after scoring the game winning basket in the second half of game four of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. The Cavaliers won 86-84. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 3, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) winces in pain against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter in game one of the second round of the NBA Playoffs. at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

John Wall

John Wall is out right now with a fractured wrist, and the Wizards are locked in a matchup with the Atlanta Hawks 2-2. With his expectations lowered, a discussion of Wall is talking simply about a return, not even a Finals victory.

How much does John Wall have to gain with a return?

I have no idea if this means anything to Wall or not, but he will somehow prove that he is not a wuss. Not that he needed to prove that to begin with, but a return from the fractured wrist will inspire plenty of pieces about his bravery and toughness, with many likely comparing him to Willis Reed. It gives him a free pass among many fans and writers to have any sort of ailment.

If and truly if Wall is recovered enough to not to heavily risk a chance of re-injury, then he gains what is so far his best opportunity since joining the NBA of reaching the NBA Finals. He will get to further distinguish himself as one of the premier point guards in the NBA, and the mere possibility of challenging for the Eastern slot will make him one of the most visible stars in the league.

How much does John Wall have to lose without a return?

Don’t return, John Wall. Don’t return unless you are absolutely sure you can. It is not worth it if there is even a fraction of a possibility that you will further damage your wrist.

John Wall has already proven that he can compete deep into the playoffs. In the wake of inexplicable competence from head coach Randy Wittman, The Wizards have shown an ability to compete even without Wall, and still have a definite shot to make it to the conference finals.

The one negative is that with the East so week and the Wizards having such a clear path to the Finals, one must wonder if this is the best chance that Wall will get to win a championship. The team had an easy enough time dispatching the Toronto Raptors, then found the Atlanta Hawks struggling more than usual. Next, they would either get a banged up Cavs team or a limited Bulls squad. The time is ripe.

Next: Stephen Curry