NBA Rumors: Wall Trade Opens Way For Westbrook Entry But Talks Stall, Report Says

A John Wall for Russell Westbrook trade was suggested recently, something most felt was a long shot. However, it appears that a surprise twist has come into play with the 30-year-old now demanding that he be traded by the Washington Wizards.

Wall would now become the latest high-profile and expensive player seeking new options. Word of Wall wanting out of Washington was reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic, citing unnamed sources. However, his tweet also included word that talks of a Wall-for-Westbrook trade stalled.

A logical step is to move the five-time All-Star to the Rockets to resolve the issue. Wall is due roughly about the same amount that Westbrook is owed ($130 million). However, there are other things to consider. One is that Wall has not played ball in 23 months.

The true reason behind Wall’s sudden demand for trade remains unknown. But most feel that this was because the Wizards have turned to Bradley Beal as the new top dog.

With Wall out, Wizards general manager Tommy Sheppard mentioned on "The Lowe Post" podcast that Washington was now going to build around Beal. It appears Wall was caught off-guard with that take, and now he is looking for a team where he will be appreciated.

But outside a possible trade with the Rockets, moving Wall will not be easy. The $170 million extension he signed ahead of the 2017-18 season will be a big problem, not to mention the fact that his history of injuries will be a concern.

Some teams have the cap space to spare. One of them is the New York Knicks. But similar to their approach with Russell Westbrook, the Knicks are not too keen on exhausting their salary budget on one player. The reason for this is because New York wants to have the financial flexibility and still make room for other possible additions.

It will be interesting if talks between the Rockets and the Wizards will restart moving forward. Westbrook is looking for takers, now joined by Wall. But their hefty contracts stand in the way, so trading places remains the most plausible move for now.