Washington Wizards: Top 10 moments of the 2018-19 NBA season
4. John Wall with 40 and 14 against the Lakers
In his time as an All-Star point guard, John Wall has never been one to shy away from big games. This isn’t to say he always delivers, but unlike some emotionless athletes, Wall wears his passion on his sleeve and isn’t bashful about playing up to his competition.
On Dec. 16, the Los Angeles Lakers were in town, bringing along arguably the biggest attraction across the league, LeBron James. Washington’s arena was packed to the brim, with fans hoping to get a taste of the King’s greatness.
The day before the game, Washington had traded both Kelly Oubre Jr. and Austin Rivers in exchange for Trevor Ariza, who had yet to join the team. The Wizards were thin of depth, and if they were to emerge victorious, it would likely take a strong showing from those who happened to be suited up.
Wizards fans wouldn’t get a vintage LeBron performance. He finished with just 13, but what they were treated to was one of the best showings of the season from Wall, who dropped 40 points to go along with 14 assists in a 128-100 win.
Many had come to criticize Wall for what at times would be considered a ball-hog style of play, especially when, in his absence the previous season, his team seemed to thrive without him. On days like this one, it was hard to complain about his control of the basketball, reminding the basketball world about the talent at his fingertips while making a statement about his place in the point guard hierarchy.