John Wall, Wizards Agree To $80 million Max Deal
The Washington Wizards locked in their point guard of the future in John Wall after signing him to a five-year, $80 million deal on Wednesday.
The Wizards, as expected, maxed out on Wall with the hope the former Kentucky Wildcats standout will develop into a superstar-caliber player and eventually lead the team to an NBA championship.
Drafted first overall in 2010, Wall averaged 18.5 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.0 rebounds despite returning midway into the season due to a knee injury.
With Wall running the show for at least five more seasons, the Wizards are expected to continue surrounding him with quality players to make them a title contender within that time period.
Bradley Beal, the third overall pick in 2012 NBA Draft, proved to be a key addition for the Wizards in his rookie year after averaging 13.9 points and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 39 per cent from beyond the arc.
The Wizards also acquired former Georgetown Hoyas star and All-American first team selectee Otto Porter after taking him third overall in last April's draft.
Despite having a young squad, the Wizards are one of the up-and-coming teams expected to make some noise this season along with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons.