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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

John Wall and the Russell Westbrook trade had created quite a stir in the NBA world. John had been playing for the Washington Wizards for the past decade, and it wasn’t easy for fans to bid goodbye to him. However, Washington had no choice but to let him go as he hadn’t played in 2 years. However, Wizards would be cursing themselves right now looking at him shine with the Houston Rockets. In fact, he has already joined Michael Jordan in a stellar record.

Why hadn’t John Wall played for 2 years?

The 2016-2017 campaign was the last time Wall was seen and considered as one of the top five guards in the NBA. He was averaging his career-best 23.1 points and 10.7 assists, leading the Wizards to almost reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.

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When he left after his Game 7 loss to the Boston Celtics that season, nobody had expected the hardship Wall was about to face. Plagued by his Achilles injury, the five-time All-Star was forced to sit out until now. Although, nobody expected his comeback besides anyone other than Bradley Beal.

When he was sent off to the Rockets, his value after so long and alongside the franchise’s superstar, James Harden, was questioned. However, it is safe to say that Wall has done an incredible job in proving himself so far.

USA Today via Reuters

Joining Michael Jordan in an incredible record

From the preseason itself, we saw a glimpse of the John Wall we were missing out on for so long. And then came the games against the Sacramento Kings where he totaled up to 50 points in both setting a record alongside MJ.

As per ESPN Stats and Info, “John Wall is the first player to score at least 50 points in his first 2 games after going at least 2 years between games since Michael Jordan (50) in 2001.”

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It’s not fair to presume that Wall will be like this throughout. It’ll be more impressive only if he maintains this form throughout his run this season. On top of that, if Harden’s trade comes through, the franchise will be in his hands.

But whether he is capable of leading Houston is a discussion for another day. As of now, Wall is looking great and the Rockets fans can only hope this also gives Harden some hope for a title.

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