” They told me to be myself, to be John Wall whatever happens. For me, it’s easy. “For his first outing with the Clippers, earlier this week against the Blazers, John Wall was not as “easy” as he says. Deprived of the NBA floors since April 2021, the new Clippers point guard signed the typical match of a logically rusty player.
Missed finishes near the circle, too predictable passes intercepted… He had to settle for 5 points (1/4), 3 assists and 2 lost balls in 14 minutes. ” I know how to be myself. For me, it’s upping the tempo. I think I’m one of the best defensemen in the league in my position, which helps them a lot with their defensive changes. », judge in spite of everything this great interceptornamed in the 2nd best defensive five in 2015.
This first outing in pre-season gave a first indication of Tyronn Lue’s intentions in relation to the position of starting point guard. That evening, Reggie Jackson was established, where John Wall came off the bench. A status that does not seem to pose a problem for the veteran.
” As I said to Paul (George) and Kawhi (Leonardo) when i got here my job is to make it easier for them so they don’t have to spend all that energy making the play come fourth quarter “, delivers the 32-year-old player.
A “health walk” for him
He adds : ” My job is to convert open shots if I want to be with them in hot moments. We know what they do in decisive moments, so for me it’s kind of a walk in the park. “A mentality that pleases Tyronn Lue:” It’s not about who is the best player but about who best suits our team to win. »
By banking on the former Wizards All-Star, the Clippers believe they have this type of player who, despite his former status, does not seem to be making waves. “ When he entered the locker room, the respect was instantaneous. The guys respect him for what he has done and the way he plays. It was simple enough for him “, describes his coach.
” A guy who can defend, distribute the ball, make everyone around him better, can fit into any team. Are we talking about a healthy John Wall? It’s a fucking nightmare (for the others) ! “Enthuses his former teammate in Washington Marcin Gortat, also passed by the Clippers.
The latter knows well that Kawhi Leonard and “PG” are ” huge leaders, huge superstars. But I promise you that John in this situation is going to be a very, very important element because he will probably be the player who carries the ball most of the time, assuming he starts. What does not yet seem certain.
