The Washington Wizards and John Wall appear to be closing in on a deal that will keep the point guard on the roster through at least 2019.
Wall and the Wizards are close to an agreement on a maximum contract extension worth roughly $80 million over the next five years according to multiple sources. Both sides have until Oct. 31 to reach an agreement to avoid Wall becoming an restricted free agent in the summer of 2014.
By signing Wall to a five-year deal the Wizards he would become the designated franchise player and prohibit any other player from singing a similar deal within the organization.
According to the Washington Post, Wall, 22, has averaged 16.9 points and eight assists in three seasons since the Wizards made him the No. 1 overall selection of the 2010 NBA draft. He missed the first 33 games last season with a stress injury in his right knee but returned with a strong finish averaging 18.5 points and 7.6 assists to lead the Wizards to a 24-25 record. Late last season Wall was adamant about receiving the maximum contract allowed and added that he would be "hurt" if he didn't receive what he believed he was worth.
Wall is currently practicing in Team USA minicamp in Las Vegas and spoke to reporters to give a status of the progress he's made thus far.
"I've improved" Wall said after Wednesday's practice. "I got better as a player. I think my jump shot is better my IQ is better and just learning the game and being a better leader.
"I feel like I'm the player I want to do be but I still have a lot I want to do" Wall said. "I could become a better passer a better defender I haven't reached my potential yet. I'm taking it step by step. Sometimes it doesn't come right away but I just think me having the right coaching staff and the right people around me just helped me grow as a player."
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