It has been ages since the Washington Wizards gifted DC with a ring in 1978. In 2010, when they picked John Wall first overall in the NBA Draft, fans rushed to the conclusion that the drought would be over. Alas, that did not happen. However, eyeing another turnaround, they have now acquired a more experienced Russell Westbrook.

Just as Russ made public his intention to leave the Rockets, and John Wall expressed his desire to make a move, the two franchises struck a deal. The Wizards gave away John and their lottery-protected 2023 first-round pick to welcome Russ. Was this a fair deal for them? 

Wizards’ forward places his complete faith in Russell Westbrook

As per a recent update, rookie Rui Hachimura said that Russ has changed the energy of the Wizards. What else can one expect from someone who has just put his foot through a new door? Russell is coming off a great regular season with the Rockets, but an equally not-so-great playoff performance. He has a lot at stake individually to shut down his critics, who unanimously believe he is past his prime.

For players like Rui (2019 #9 pick) or even Deni Avdija (2020 #9 pick), the veteran in Russ has the responsibility to inspire them and lift their game. The Wizards were 25-47 last year and missed the cut for NBA playoffs by a huge margin. They will most certainly hope this new energy reflects in their ‘W’ numbers.

What makes Russ more important than John?

John Wall has not played a complete season in the past three years and hence it will be safe to say that he is a bit rusty. On the other hand, Russ is hungrier than ever to prove himself and brings that small-ball experience with him. 

An NBA executive recently said in an interview, “Washington improved because they have someone that can functionally play in the games and the head coach has deep familiarity with the player acquired. Totally worth the risk. The bigger risk was returning someone from a dramatic injury that so heavily relied on speed to be effective.”

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Do you think Russ can change the stars of the Wizards better than Wall can for the Rockets?

Read also – John Wall Vows to Return to All-star Levels As He Bids an Emotional Goodbye to Washington Wizards & Their Fans