Washington Wizards' John Wall Close To Returning, Plays Five on Five For First Time
Washington Wizards’ John Wall played five-on-five for the first time since getting double-knee surgery, clearing the final hurdle before returning.
By all accounts, John Wall had lived up to expectations during the Washington Wizards‘ training camp last week. To those watching him flush dunks effortlessly during practice, it appeared as if Wall didn’t undergo double-knee surgery in the off-season.
Wall, who missed the last few games of the season after experiencing discomfort in his knee, opted to have both of his knees operated on in the summer to ensure that he’s healthy for the upcoming season.
The former first overall pick noted that he would often only use one of his legs to jump last season. Still, he made the All-Star team for the third straight season and averaged 20 points and 10 assists for the first time in his career. Numbers-wise, Wall had the best season of his career despite not being able to use both of his legs.
Since he had the surgeries five months ago, Wall has progressively increased his level of activity. First, he was cleared to do some light conditioning and ramped it up to on-court practice, such as dribbling and shooting.
Recently, Wall had been cleared to participate in training camp in a limited capacity. He did some one-on-one work with the team and did team drills with contact, but had yet to play in a full scrimmage.
Playing five-on-five and practicing in an organized game-like setting is typically the final step before a player returns to the court from injury.
On Monday, Wall had finally cleared the last hurdle.
According to J.Michael of CSN Mid-Atlantic and other D.C. reporters, Wall has participated in his first scrimmage.
Finally, John Wall made it through full drills Monday for the Wizards as they prepare for their preseason opener Tuesday night against the Miami Heat (CSN, 7 p.m. ET).
“I thought John came back really good after the off-day. I think we all needed that off-day. That helps regain the energy you need to have to compete every day in practice,” coach Scott Brooks said after Monday’s two-hour session. “John did about 15 to 20 minutes of 5-on-5. That was the first time we’ve done that since camp. That’s pretty good.”
As J.Michael also noted, Wall won’t be available against the Miami Heat for the Washington Wizards’ preseason opener on Tuesday night. Trey Burke will be the starting point guard.
Wall was reportedly ahead of schedule to return and this is the clear indicator that his return is imminent. Washington’s regular season opener is on October 27, so Wall still has time to get adjusted before making his full return.
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