It seems like John Wall is leaving the Houston Rockets sooner or later, and one of the top contenders may be ready for a surprise attack.
The Athletic's David Aldridge said in an article this week that he predicted Wall would eventually join the Miami Heat. Aldridge mentioned Wall living in Miami during the offseason, while the Heat are known for extending the careers of talented players who fell to the ground due to injuries.
The former All-Star basically agreed to part ways with the rebuilding Rockets. But Wall has about $90 million left on his contract, which makes him virtually unable to trade, leaving 31-year-old Wall waiting for a buyout.
If Wall does get a buyout, the Heat makes a lot of sense. After reaching the Finals in 2020, they signed Kyle Lowry, PJ Tucker and Markif Morris, rejuvenating this offseason. The Heat's current sixth man is 21-year-old Telehero, who is more like a natural number two guard.
Wall averaged 20.9 points and 6.9 assists per game last season, making it easy to lead the second team. He could also provide some much-needed insurance for the uncertain Heat's backcourt rotation.
Ricqui Rubio, G, CLE (32% roster)
Rubio averaged a team-high 5.4 assists of 9.0 per game during preseason, although he was ninth in average playing time (17.20 minutes). His playing time will overlap with Colin Sexton and Darius Garland, but he appears to be the team's best passer early on.
That said, Leonard is a man who has spent time in history recovering from injuries. But that's certainly good news for the Clippers, who may just have to hold out long enough before Leonard returns to get a playoff seed in the West.