Feb 6, 2012; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards head coach Randy Wittman and point guard John Wall (2) during the second half against the Toronto Raptors at the Verizon Center. The Wizards defeated the Raptors 111 – 108. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

With a newly inked $80 million dollar contract in hand, I think we could all expect John Wall to take the next step amongst elite point guards in this upcoming season. That certainly seems to be the case with Wizards head coach, Randy Wittman, who expects to see a “different” John Wall this season.

John (Wall) has had another good summer. I see him not only physically, on the court, but I think his maturity is at another level. People forget how old John is (23). Going through what he’s gone through this summer, his work in becoming a better player, his contract, the responsibility of that I’ve been really pleased with his development. I see a different John Wall.

via J.Michael of CSN Washington

John Wall’s work ethic and maturity has been questioned in the past, but the former first overall pick has truly molded himself into the young leader the Wizards needed heading into the season. Wall has spent this week at the Verizon Center working out with a number of his teammates in the “mini-camp” he helped organize. While other players are still taking some time off before the start of training camp later this month, John Wall has put in the work needed for him to take his game to the next level.

Randy Wittman seems very pleased in the way Wall has been handling himself, and it just goes to show his willingness to improve and get better. Needless to say, I cannot wait to see what Wall will bring to the table this season.