NBA Rumors: 2010 Top Pick Hints At Houston Rockets Exit, Season Shutdown Possibly Linked

John Wall of the Houston Rockets saw an abrupt end to his 2020-21 NBA season on account of a hamstring injury. Considering the team is out of the playoffs, it makes sense for them to preserve the five-time All-Star. However, his recent vote in a social media poll has sent mixed feelers on what the 6-foot-3 guard plans to do in the offseason.

A fan recently put up an Instagram poll asking whether people think Wall will get traded, bought out or stay. Surprisingly, the top pick of the 2010 NBA Draft participated and chose the option that he will leave. The whole thing was captured on Twitter.

While most are taking it with a grain of salt, it may have just opened a can of worms. The Rockets are rebuilding and are expected to go for younger players this offseason.

For his part, Wall ended up in Houston as part of that Russell Westbrook trade involving the Washington Wizards. It was entirely his choice, but most know how things just fell apart between Westbrook and the Wizards leading up to the trade.

Wall made the most out of his stint during the 2020-21 NBA season with the Rockets. He played in 40 games, averaging 20.6 points, 9.1 assists and 4.3 rebounds before being forced to sit on the sidelines.

It was the second best-season performance for the native of North Carolina. The only other good season he had was with the Wizards during the 2016-17 NBA season.

But if he is serious about leaving, it won’t be easy for Wall. He is due to make $44.3 million next season and $47.3 million in 2022. As for the latter, it would be best to note that the 2014 NBA Slam Dunk Contest winner has a player option. Stretching that vote further, it could mean Wall may choose to exercise that option after the coming NBA season.

The Rockets may have hit a nerve when they cut ties with DeMarcus Cousins, Wall’s best friend. There could be something more to the hamstring injury and why Wall sat out. This could be a development worth watching, especially by the NBA offseason.