The Washington Wizards have “no plans” to trade John Wall, general manager Tommy Sheppard told media Monday. He also noted that Wall hasn’t requested a trade, adding there is “no issue” between Wall and Sheppard or the Wizards as an organization.
Sheppard’s comments refute a Shams Charania report that Wall “made it clear” he wants out of Washington after being included in trade talks, surrounding Russell Westbrook. Sheppard previously dismissed the exploratory conversation.
Wall has been the face of the Wizards franchise since being selected first overall in the 2010 NBA Draft. He is Washington’s all-time leader in assists and steals and is fourth in scoring.
However, he hasn’t played in an NBA game since December 2018 due to a heel injury and torn Achilles. He is expected to return at the start of upcoming season. The Wizards appear focused on his return, reuniting him with backcourt-mate Bradley Beal, who has emerged as a lethal scorer in Wall’s absence.
The hope is Wall will be able to return to his All-NBA form he showcased prior to his latest injury. In his last full healthy season, Wall averaged career-highs of 23.1 points, 10.7 assists and 2.0 steals during the 2016-17 season.
Was the report(s) untrue of Wall wanting out of Washington? Was the five-time all-star simply frustrated hearing his name in the Westbrook proposal? Nevertheless, it appears the Wizards are ready to put the distraction behind them and focus on the upcoming season, with Wall.
