Russell Westbrook Traded to the Wizards for John Wall

In a blockbuster deal, Russell Westbrook was traded for John Wall. It seemed apparent that Russell Westbrook was not sure whether he had a future with the Houston Rockets. The deal took place between the Rockets & Wizards. The Wizards are to acquire Westbrook per the deal, where he will be reuniting with Scott Brooks, his former coach. Under the deal, the Rockets will have a protected 2023 first-round pick and Wall. 

Talking about this blockbuster deal, Tommy Shepperd, Wizards general manager said that "Having the opportunity to acquire a player of Russell's caliber and character was something that we could not pass up when looking at both the immediate and long-term future of our team. Wizards general manager Tommy Shepperd said later Wednesday in a statement after the teams announced the trade. "With that said, the decision to part ways with John, one of the greatest players in franchise history, was extremely difficult. What he meant to our organization and our community is immeasurable and will not be forgotten."

John Wall Journey. 

It was since December 26, 2018, that Wall has not been playing because of injuries. Talking about this episode of injuries, Wall in a statement said, "We can’t control certain things that happen in life, but one thing I can control is my heart will always be in this city." Sheppard also said that there was no plan to dismiss Wall, and Beal and Wall were to lead the team and grow together -- this sadly could never happen. However hard the two stars tried to do and the match never looked perfect on the court as it should have been. 

The 32-years-old, Westbrook is entering the third year of his $206 million contracts, with which he will be earning $47 million in 2022-23. On the other hand, the 30-year-old John Wall is going to enter the second year of his four-year, $171 million deal with which he will be earning $47.3 million in the 2022-23 season. 

Playing with Houstons, Westbrook alongside James averaged 7.0 assists, 7.9 rebounds, and 27.2 points through the last season. On the other hand, Wall has not played for almost two years. Talking about this, Scott Brooks, the Wizards coach said, "His speed, his quickness, and his ability to explode is there. It’s all going to come down to stamina and being able to go through a training camp and exhibition games. That’s always the thing that you worry about — does he have that speed? I’ve seen it up close. I saw it in practice last year with our team. He’s had some extra time to really get ready. He’s had these extra couple of months. If there’s a silver lining with the pandemic, he’s had some extra time to be ready to start the season."

Wall teaming up with DeMarcus Cousins

Wall will be teaming up with DeMarcus Cousins, the former Kentucky teammate. They also have previously talked about being in the same NBA team. This trade will mark the end of an era for the wizards who have drafted Wall as the No.1 pick in 2010. Wall is a five-time All NBA & All-Star selection for 2016-17. 

Ted Leonsis, the Wizards owner, took to Twitter to thank Wall for his contribution to the team. In a statement, he said, "He has been a great, all-star caliber player and a fantastic citizen and leader in our community. I am proud of how hard John has worked to come back to the league after two years away from competing. Our fans, our franchise, and I will miss him very much. I personally wish the best for him in his new city and franchise. Good health and good fortune to John Wall and all of Washington DC thanks you for your unabashed love of the game — and our community."