Wizards' Wall ready to pitch Durant 'when the time is right'

Kevin Durant doesn't want fans to listen to the rumors around his unrestricted free agency in 2016, but John Wall isn't a typical fan.

The Washington Wizards point guard admitted this weekend he's prepared to try to lure Durant away from the Oklahoma City Thunder if the opportunity presents itself. While there are probably 30 teams hoping to do the same next summer - or in 2017, depending on Durant's risk profile - Wall can offer himself and Bradley Beal as a core, along with the opportunity for Durant to return to his hometown.

Wall told CSN Mid-Atlantic:

There's gonna be an opportunity where you have an opportunity to try to throw a pitch at him and try to get him to come back home. But I know one thing, of just knowing him, he's gonna be focused on taking care of (the) Oklahoma City Thunder this season ... But, when the time is right and he can get away from all that, yeah, probably do have some conversations and throw your pitch.

Wall's desire to play with Durant is understandable, and it's nothing new. If Durant is going to leave the Thunder, the Wizards can probably be considered among the top suitors given their location and the young pieces they have in place. But Wall may wind up disappointed, along with players from 28 other teams.

While Durant has maintained he'll stay in the moment - his immediate focus is surely on starting the season healthy and comfortable following three surgeries on his right foot - he also said he wants to stay in Oklahoma City for the long haul.