After months of links, it finally happened. Following his buyout with the Houston Rockets, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN is reporting that John Wall to the LA Clippers is the plan. Per Wojnarowski, “other teams are calling to pursue Wall in free agency, but his intention is to join the Clippers.” Tim MacMahon of ESPN is reporting that Wall gave up $6.5M of his $47.4M salary, which is approximately the amount that the Clippers’ taxpayer midlevel exception remains. MacMahon also says that Wall is likely to sign for that.
John Wall to Join the LA Clippers
Wall last played for the Rockets in the 2020-21 season. In 30 games, he averaged 20.6 points, 6.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per contest. All while shooting 40.4% from the field and 32.2% from three.
Earlier this year, I wrote about Wall’s fit with the Clippers. He brings the squad another playmaker but with a different variation of attack. Wall isn’t the same athlete as he once was in Washington. But he can still get downhill effectively and get in the paint. Something this Clipper team does not have in abundance from its personnel.
Additionally, Wall adds another pick and roll threat that will sure to see plenty of reps with center Ivica Zubac. His jumper is still a question mark and he will be asked to knock down open shots to create space for stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. While it is likely that Wall starts over current starter Reggie Jackson, the latter will bring competition for those closing minutes. Jackson has shown that he can take and make big shots in the clutch and is a proven complement next to LA’s stars.
Wall will have to buy into the Clippers’ inclusive and unselfish culture set forth by head coach Ty Lue. Overall, I expect Wall to accept whatever role he is placed in.
