Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

It is no secret that it is very important for players to work hard in the offseason in preparation for the upcoming year. Those who do tend to have breakout seasons, while those who do not tend to fall back with the rest of the pack. There are many in Washington nervous about how point guard John Wall is spending his offseason. However, the Washington Wizards believe the 22-year-old is all about basketball.

“John has a lot of charisma,” Wizards owner Ted Leonsis said, according to CSNWashington.com. “The one thing I’ll say is John is not a – it doesn’t get to his head. John is about basketball. To me that’s really, really important. Every player in this league is athletically gifted. The difference between being really good and great is hard work. It’s not just hard work in the offseason, it’s how you practice, the film that you watch and are you all about basketball.

Related: NBA Trade Idea: Washington Wizards Should Look to Acquire Omer Asik

“John is really in that sweet spot right now where he’s all about basketball.”

Wall recently signed a five-year, $80 million contract extension that had many scratching their heads. It is true Wall has the potential to be a dominant point guard for many years to come. In fact, he has the skill set to become one of the best in the league. With that being said, the possibility of a reoccurring knee injury and plenty of turnovers have many wondering if he is worth the money.

The Wizards understand it is certainly a gamble. However, it is the payoff that interests them. What Wall brings to the table during the 2013-14 NBA season will determine the direction that he is headed. With new pieces added to the team and several young players ready to breakout, Washington finally has what it takes to be a team that contends for a playoff spot. It will all depend on how far Wall is willing to lead them.