The Houston Rockets-John Wall saga is starting to get interesting.
On Sunday, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN detailed a report where Wall met with Rockets general manager Rafael Stone, and coach Stephen Silas to clarify his intentions to return to the hardwood. Both sides didn’t settle for an agreement, as the former star guard rejected the backup role that the management was offering.
“The Rockets have wanted Wall to accept a complementary role to its young players to play on this team, and the five-time All-Star guard’s unwillingness to do so continues to be a hurdle for the sides in a possible return to play this season, sources said.”
– Adrian Wojnarowski, Sources: John Wall meets with Houston Rockets’ GM and coach about return to roster
As such, the Rockets remain patient of finding an ideal trade partner to ship Wall and its extremely complicated two-year, $91 million contract — an idea that the two have agreed upon prior to the start of the 2021-2022 campaign.
No one knows what would unfold on the following days to come about the 31-year-old point man’s future — whether he’ll be able to finally suit up a Houston uniform or will just continue as a moral supporter off the bench. The uncertainties are around and there could be a possibility for a return.
But if ever Wall and the Rockets arrange an unreal scenario moving forward — which is a buyout case — expect that there will be a handful of teams to look into consideration of signing the North Carolina native.
And these are the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Clippers and the reigning NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks.
Brandon Robinson of Bally Sports recently revealed in his ‘Intel With Scoop B’ show that these three mentioned contending teams are monitoring a possible split between Wall and the Rockets.
“I’m told that if that (buyout) happens, there are three teams who are eyeing the situation and that includes: the Miami Heat, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers.”
– Brandon Robinson, Intel With Scoop B
The Heat (13-7) and Bucks (13-8) are within the top 4 bubble of the Eastern Conference so far. Though loaded with backcourt cagers, these touted giants can still benefit from the playmaking and intangibles that Wall possesses especially when the sense of urgency approaches. Meanwhile, the Clippers (11-9) look to be the most ideal landing spot for the floor general, who can create tons of opportunities for star swingmen Paul George and still sidelined Kawhi Leonard.
So far, this saga seems to be bound for some extension and enticing happenings. Given the fact that these two are contradicting their respective interests — H-town is inclined on what lies ahead and Wall is eager to finally play — eyes and attention has to be also focused on them. As the season is getting much more intense, it’ll be good to keep an eye on Red Nation’s condition and plans.
The Rockets are currently 3-16 and on the winning column — carving back-to-back dubs from the last two games. If they are planning to get more Ws and growth on the young guns, they’ll opt to stick to the best decisions.
