The great Wall of Washington
John Wall was always regarded as a top prospect and he was always expected to make the transition from College to the NBA.
On Wednesday night he showed everyone just how quickly he’s made the transition by recording his first career triple-double after only six professional career starts. At 20 years, 65 days he became the third youngest player to do so, behind LeBron James and Lamar Odom.
The youngster from Kentucky became just the sixth player to record a triple-double in his first six games – Oscar Robertson accomplished the feat in his first game as a pro.
Wall recorded 19 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds as he helped his Washington Wizards secure their second win of the season beating the Houston Rockets 98-91. The rookie also had six steals on the night.
With Magic Johnson in the crowd, Wall didn’t disappoint, impersonating the man who recorded 138 triple-doubles. "He's a legend, a Hall of Famer, somebody that you would look up too," Wall said. "He had the 'Showtime' in him, won championships. You try to reach the goals he got but do it in your own fashionable way."
Al Thornton and Andray Blatche led the Wizards in scoring with 20 apiece but it was the point guard who showed he’s not just another brick in the wall.
“I wasn't forcing too much tonight, finding my teammates, making the right reads. Sometimes I get too excited trying to make a spectacular play instead of the simple play. Tonight I think I did the right thing with the simple plays,” Wall said.
Kevin Martin scored 31 points for the Rockets who slip to a 1-6 record. Luis Scola continued his terrific start to the season by adding 24 points, ultimately Martin and Scola couldn’t carry a Rockets side who are suffering from injuries.
"I was disappointed again," Adelman said. "Every game we've had this year -- except for the one we won - right down to the fourth quarter, we have a chance to win, and we don't get it done."
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