
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 2, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; John Wall #1 of the Houston Rockets controls the ball against Buddy Hield #24 of the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter of a game at Toyota Center on January 02, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 2, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; John Wall #1 of the Houston Rockets controls the ball against Buddy Hield #24 of the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter of a game at Toyota Center on January 02, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
NBA is one of the most physical sports there is. So, when you return from back-to-back injuries, there are always going to be question marks on form, fitness, and that typical ‘Can he get back to his best level’ chatter. But John Wall is making his best efforts to quash such doubts.
Against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday night, he led the Houston Rockets to a much-needed win. Not only through his own performances, but also by motivating the team in the absence of James Harden.
💪 @JohnWall was all over the floor in @HoustonRockets W!
28 PTS | 6 AST | 3 STL | 2 BLK #Rockets pic.twitter.com/bsRujZoERC
— NBA (@NBA) January 3, 2021
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And his opposing guard, Buddy Hield, was left impressed by Walls’ demeanor. “He really looks really good. And he’s actually been just talking and being a coach for his teammates. He’s very positive, and he’s even telling me stuff that I can do to get better open.”
Hield also believes that he is getting back to his previous levels, where he was one of the best point guards in the NBA. Expressing his delight for Wall, he said,
“So, he looks really good. You know, I am happy that he is back healthy and at full strength. And he looks even better, man. His shot is falling in. Looks like the All-Star John Wall we know. So happy for him and feel like he’s found a good spot in Houston.”

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 2, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; John Wall #1 of the Houston Rockets puts up a basket against Richaun Holmes #22 of the Sacramento Kings during the third quarter of a game at Toyota Center on January 02, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
Can John Wall and the Rockets build on this momentum?
The former Washington Wizards stalwart is averaging 25 points and 7.5 assists per game after 37 minutes on the floor. That looks close to his previous numbers on the offensive end.
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To go with that, he also has 3 blocks and 2 steals to his name. So, on this account, he looks to be the old John Wall. However, the main question is if he can maintain these levels going forward or not.
John Wall defensive highlights last night 🔒 pic.twitter.com/N5FhSHySQ8
— arian (@arxanii) January 3, 2021
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An NBA season is long and tiring. And he still has to prove if he can go through those rigors once again. The Rockets desperately need him on the court to build on this win. Especially with such negativity around Harden.
If Wall keeps this form up throughout the season, they will certainly have a bargain on their hands.
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