John Wall, Washington Wizards Near Five Year, $80 Million Extension

The Washington Wizards and point guard John Wall are close to putting the finishing touches on a new, five-year $80 million extension, according to reports.

By designating the 22-year-old rising star their franchise player, the Wizards were able to offer Wall a fifth year on the deal, thus putting him in the position of being one of the league’s highest paid players at his position.

Yahoo reports Wall’s agent, Dan Fegan, and management are in the final stages of completing the agreement, placing them well ahead of the Oct. 31 deadline by which an extension must be completed on the rookie contract he signed in order to prevent him from becoming a restricted free agent.

Wall, who was in Vegas much of this week competing for a spot on the Team USA squad, is credited with playing a huge role in changing the culture of the team and organization in the wake of the Gilbert Arenas locker room gun debacle.

Even as he’s struggled with injuries, team officials have appreciated the way he’s remained professional, continued to work on his game and been a calming influence throughout the locker room.

Wall has also made huge strides on the hardwood, averaging nearly 24 points and 8 assists over his last 20 games in 2013, while shooting 48 percent from the floor and 42 percent from three.