A while back, the Los Angeles Lakers were inquiring about obtaining former all-star, John Wall, from the Houston Rockets via a trade. The reason that rumor originated is because the Lakers were also reportedly trying to ship Russell Westbrook at the trade deadline. It’s safe to say that the “Westbrook experiment” has fallen flat, albeit the amount of injuries to the roster hasn’t helped the situation. Nonetheless, the Lakers would be lucky enough to make it out of the first round.
That is if they make it past the play-in tournament. Since the offseason could be here quicker for the Lakers, they should start thinking ahead. There are certain players/scenarios that they should steer clear from, and Wall is one of them. Ever since LeBron James joined the organization, the Lakers have had a “win now” mindset. This how they landed both Westbrook and Anthony Davis. However, it cost them their young core to make those trades.
Wall on The Lakers? Nope
As previously mentioned, Westbrook just doesn’t seem to be a good fit on the Lakers. So, given next season will be the final year of his contract, it would probably be smart to look at trade options. The Lakers are certainly not going to trade him for prospects and draft picks. They want an already established player to help them win another championship. The Rockets are looking for suitors for Wall this upcoming offseason. They were unable to move him this season and they won’t let him suit up to play. The Rockets reportedly offered the Lakers Wall in exchange for Westbrook and a future first round pick (2027). The Lakers declined, and were smart to do so. Given James’ age and the current roster structure, the Lakers can’t be contenders forever.
By 2027, the Lakers would most likely be building for the future once again. So, risking a future first round draft pick was a huge risk. As for Wall, similar to Westbrook he’s too much of a wild card. He has suffered two major lower leg injuries in recent years, and he is a far cry from what he was able to do for the Washington Wizards. Trading for Wall would send the Lakers back, and possibly ruin them even further. His speed, agility, and durability isn’t what is used to be and he’s an aging player. Wall’s career will never be the same and he’s on the same path as fellow Kentucky Wildcat, Demarcus Cousins. While Westbrook might be a bad fit, Wall would be an even worse choice.
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