John Wall wants Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Corey Tincher | Jun 03, 2012 | Comments 1
John Wall wants a partner in crime, and he seems to be indicating Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is the man for the job. Wall’s Washington Wizards were awarded the third pick in the 2012 NBA draft this week, meaning they’ll have a great opportunity to fill some glaring holes in their roster. And Wall wasn’t too shy to share his thoughts on the kind of player his team needs.
“I think you a need a 2-guard. I think you need a 2- or 3-guard, especially another 3 or 2 to come in and bring a lot of energy,” Wall recently revealed in an interview with CSN Washington. “I think you got the big man position where we need it at.”
Of the players listed at the top of mock draft boards, there’s one in particular that fits Wall’s description perfectly: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. No player in the 2012 draft can provide the energy that MKG does on a regular basis. And with Kidd-Gilchrist’s lightening quick reflexes on the break, the potential backcourt tandem of John and Michael would dominate in a transition-heavy league. MKG also brings a strong rebounding presence to a team that ranks near the bottom of the league in rebounding, and lacks a single player averaging more than 7.5 rebounds last season. Wall and Kidd-Gilchrist might just be the perfect pairing, and Washington’s numbers would certainly swell with local Big Blue faithful present night after night.
Kidd-Gilchrist isn’t the only option for the Wizards. The Bobcats could claim Michael with their second overall pick, leaving Wall and the Wizards with a dilemma. Florida’s Bradley Beal and North Carolina’s Harrison Barnes would be suitable 2- and 3-guard options if Kidd-Gilchrist isn’t available. But I think we all know how much Wall cherished his time and Kentucky, and how much he still values his relationship with Calipari. There’s little doubt, Wall wants a fellow Wildcat and Calipari player. He wants Kidd-Gilchrist at his side.
And it’s a safe bet, if Kentucky fans can’t get MKG back for another year, they’ll be okay with him joining John Wall instead.
Filed Under: Basketball
[...] John Wall already informed the world he wanted a back-court partner in Washington, and Kidd-Gilchrist doesn’t seem averse to the idea. There aren’t many teams near the top end of the draft that would provide Kidd-Gilchrist with the wins he so greatly desires, but the deadly combination of Wall and MKG might give the Wizards the spark they need to compete in the East. John Wall hasn’t quite shined like everyone expected, and Michael’s burning desire to succeed alongside his pure work ethic might be enough to bring out Wall’s best too. [...]