Put this rumor to bed, Wizards say they are not trading John Wall

Given his huge contract and injury history, the Wizards aren’t trading John Wall.

With or without star guard Bradley Beal, the Washington Wizards are quietly building a nice future led by Rui Hachimura and Deni Avdija. Unfortunately, the once-beloved John Wall has become more of a burden than a solution due to his massive contract. With trade rumors flying considering the direction of the franchise, the Wizards had to finally step in and declare that Wall isn’t leaving Washington.

GM Tommy Sheppard claims that Wall has not requested a trade from Washington, all the while talking up his relationship with Beal.

John Wall hasn’t played in two years due to his injury problems

Since the start of the 2017 season, Wall has played in just 73 games. However, when healthy and motivated, Wall’s blinding speed and expert passing makes him one of the most difficult point guards to defend in the league. The former No. 1 overall pick, who is one of a select few players currently signed to a supermax contract, hasn’t played since the middle of the 2018 season, and his Achilles injury has many wondering if he can replicate his explosive style of play in his advanced age.

When finally asked about his future plans and the validity of the trade request rumors, Wall responded with a trite “no comment.” That’s not an outright denial, and to could make for a frosty season in the nation’s capital.

If Wall is even half the player he was before his injuries, Washington might be able to contend for a playoff spot given the fact he and Beal will combine for an automatic 45 points every night. However, this has the potential to be catastrophically bad, and his contract is a major obstacle preventing a proper rebuild.