NBA insider says he doesn’t think the Clippers will really trade for John Wall

A John Wall trade to the Los Angeles Clippers is unlikely according to one NBA insider.

With John Wall and the Houston Rockets working to find Wall a new destination, many speculated the Los Angeles Clippers could be a possible landing spot. They’ve been in the market for a facilitating point guard for the past few seasons and Wall would fit that role.

Despite the on-paper match, ESPN’s NBA insider Zach Lowe took to his podcast to say there’s a slim chance of that actually happening due to the Clippers’ lack of interest in Russell Westbrook when he was available:

“The Clippers were never interested in Russell Westbrook. They were a rumored Russell Westbrook trade in a few places whenever that happened. They were never interested. That was never a real thing. I think they value their optionality too much.”

Lowe ultimately concluded, “I just don’t see it,” because, like Westbrook, Wall is over 30 and has a massive contract — $44 million due this season and a player option the following season for over $47 million.

Where does John Wall land?

If the Clippers are actually out, the teams that make sense for both John Wall and the franchise are slim. Surely Wall would like to join a contending squad, but his contract for his perceived value at the moment will make a lot of teams hesitant.

Maybe he gets involved in a big multi-team trade that frees Ben Simmons from Philadelphia. It’s also possible he could end up in New Orleans, who made space for Kyle Lowry but settled for Devonte’ Graham when Lowry signed with the Miami Heat. Wherever he goes, they will be tasked with working with his contract.