The Nets have just four games left to secure a playoff spot, and with much hanging in the balance, at least one bit of good fortune came their way. All-Star Washington Wizards guard John Wall, the team leader in points, assists, steals, and ridiculous highlights, will rest Friday night against the Brooklyn Nets, according to reporters at the Wizards shootaround.
John Wall said he's resting tonight vs the Nets.
— Andy Vasquez (@andy_vasquez) April 10, 2015
This is the second game Wall will sit out all season after resting Wednesday, and it’s a bit of a surprise. The Wizards are only one game behind the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference playoff race, and could still secure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
Wall is averaging 17.5 points, 10.0 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 35.8 minutes per game. With Wall off the court, the Wizards have been outscored by 6.1 points per 100 possessions this season, the biggest differential of any Wizards player.
For the Nets, Joe Johnson (illness) and Earl Clark (personal) both missed shootaround but are expected to play. There is no update as of this time on Alan Anderson (sprained ankle), who has missed three straight games.