NBA Trade Rumors: The Houston Rockets and John Wall have agreed to part ways.
The Houston Rockets, at least in part, acquired John Wall in an attempt to help keep James Harden committed to the franchise a year ago. Now that it’s over and done with, Wall’s presence on the team’s roster didn’t make much sense.
After a quiet offseason on that front, it’s been reported (subscription required) what we probably already knew – that the Rockets and Wall will work together to find a new home for him as the 2021-22 NBA season quickly draws near.
Perhaps the biggest news from this report is the fact that an agreement is already in place that Wall won’t play any games this season for the Rockets. Another interesting tidbit is that there are currently no plans for a buyout.
Essentially, at least for the time being, the plan is for the Rockets to trade the former all-star. Whether or not that’s actually something that would seem doable remains to be seen.
Finding a trade for John Wall could prove to be difficult for the Houston Rockets
It’s also difficult to outline what exactly the Rockets would be looking for in return. Even though Wall proved last season that he is still a good player, he’s certainly not the all-star talent that he was prior to injury and still has $92 million remaining on his contract, which includes a $47-plus million player option for next season.
Considering the unlikelihood that Wall would agree to decline that player option for next season, no matter whose books he may be on, finding a trade could prove to be extremely difficult.
Nevertheless, it seems the Rockets appear focused on trying to find one.
In 40 games played for the Rockets last season, Wall averaged 21 points, seven assists, and three rebounds per game. He only shot 40 percent from the field and 31 percent from 3-point range. Though, the hope is that his percentages improve a bit more now that he’s one full year removed from his return to the hardwood.
As the Rockets head into a year of rebuilding, in which they have a bright future after hitting the jackpot on Jalen Green, it appears that the franchise is ready to move on from some of its veteran pieces. Up first, it appears to be Wall. We’ll find out soon if they’re able to find a landing spot for him.