By a mutual agreement, five-time All-Star John Wall isn’t expected to play for the rebuilding Houston Rockets in the 2021-22 season. However, that doesn’t mean that he won’t make an impact.
Wall remains on Houston’s roster, and at Monday’s annual media day prior to the start of training camp, he and general manager Rafael Stone took the stage together to address his new situation.
While confirming the recent reports, both Wall and Stone said that he would actively be a member of the team and a presence on Houston’s sideline at practices and at games in the upcoming season.
“I’m still part of the team,” Wall said.
“He’s not like, a part,” Stone interjected. “He’s an important part. We’re leaning on John. John’s a rock. That’s my dude. We’re in it together.”
John Wall says he will be with the team on the bench for all games, including road games and all travel. #Rockets
— Ben DuBose (@BenDuBose) September 27, 2021
Wall said he did not have a list of preferred destinations, adding that his focus is on the Rockets and their developing young core.
“My job is to be a veteran presence for these guys, until something happens,” Wall said Monday. “Nobody knows when that will be. But my job is to mentor these guys as much as possible, keep myself in shape, and prepare myself for whenever I get the call, or if I do.”
Stone said he would not discuss any trade talks, but added that he believes Wall “would make every single team in the NBA better.”
