WEEK 6, DEBATE 2: John Wall vs. Luis Scola

        

VS.

Who would you rather have this season: John Wall or Luis Scola?

WALL'S REP:

“If you compare Luis Scola to John Wall right now, Scola is a better player. I won’t bother trying to argue. Scola last season was more efficient than Wall, has rare skill for a big man, and is an excellent rebounder for his size. His advanced stats were superb. But this isn’t about the past; it’s about the future. Is there a player more prepared for a Russell Westbrook-like leap than John Wall this coming season? Wall’s talent leaps off the court - it’s impossible not to notice. Scola is a solid and efficient player, but his upside is nil - it doesn’t exist. Wall will one day (very possibly this season) become one of the best players in the NBA; Luis Scola will not." 

SCOLA'S REP:

“'The Great Wall of Argentina' When Yao Ming when down for the final time, who picked up the rebounding and the scoring? Luis Scola with 18.3 ppg, 8.2 reb and 2.5 ast while playing all 82 games last season. The most underrated power forward flies under the radar while guarding the West’s big men and standing at only 6’9’’. Since Yao’s last full season played (2008-09), Scola’s averaged more than 16 pts, 8 rebs and 2 asts while still managing to knock down 50% of his shots and 73% of his ft’s as an undersized big man in 2009-10. John Wall’s rookie season leaves much to be improved if he wants to be a point guard. Unless he’s fortunate enough to be the next Jason Kidd or Rajon Rondo, a 41% fg accuracy and 30% 3-point shot won’t do."

WALL'S REP:

“I will simply reiterate what I wrote in my opening argument: Luis Scola was by far the better player in the 2010-2011 season, but his upside is non-existent. John Wall is primed for a monumental leap to superstar status this coming season. Luis Scola is the more sure thing, but Wall’s potential is limitless. By any estimation John Wall enjoyed a very, very good rookie campaign. The biggest knock on his game is undoubtedly his efficiency. But why wouldn’t Wall improve in that area…can you give me one good reason? Russell Westbrook - a logical comparison - made a monumental leap between his second and third seasons. But Westbrook plays with fellow super star Kevin Durant… John Wall plays with Andray Blatche. There is nothing standing in the way of John Wall becoming the next great point guard. His upside and physical tools are both unlimited. Give me that."

SCOLA'S REP:

"Point guards like Russell Westbrook and Derrick Rose are rare examples of players who excel after their first seasons. However, players do experience the sophomore slump – O.J. Mayo and Tyreke Evans. John Wall has every ground to improve his game because, as you mention, he only has Andrea Blatche (who’s only known for his defensive capabilities of rebounding, blocks and steals). Until they get him the necessary players, his situation will be like Kevin Love, in which he’s the team’s only go-to guy. But that won’t be revealed until the season tips off, along with whether Wall’s potential excels or is hindered now that opponents are familiar with his style of play."

Who won this debate? Go to the right sidebar to cast your vote!