National Basketball Association

John Wall's frank message for Bradley Beal: You got your money, now earn it

Published Nov. 15, 2016 3:12 p.m. ET

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Dan Carson

The tension between John Wall and Bradley Beal isn't exactly hidden.

Over the course of their five years together with the Washington Wizards, the body language and interactions between the franchise's number one and two guys have shaded decidedly toward unfriendly and uncomfortable.

The only difference now, however, is the two are talking about it openly, ostensibly in the hopes they can figure this thing out.

CSN MidAtlantic's J. Michael published a piece Tuesday wherein Wall and Beal explain their fragile relationship and mutual dislike for sharing the spotlight.

"I think a lot of times we have a tendency to dislike each other on the court," Wall said. "We got to be able to put that to the side. If you miss somebody one one play or don't have something go right...as long as you come to each other and talk. If I start arguing with somebody, I'm cool. I'm just playing basketball."

Wall was also exceedingly frank about his new expectations of Beal in light of the five-year, $128 million max contract he signed over the summer.

Beal said the tension is caused by their conflicting egos.

"It’s tough because we’re both alphas," Beal said. "It’s always tough when you have two guys who firmly believe in themselves."

The deeper issue here seems to be the question of their roles on the team. Wall maintains he's the lead guy and Beal is his talented sidekick.

"I want it all to be on me," Wall said. "At the same time I want him to be right there with me. He’s my sidekick. I’m A. He’s A-1. He’s right there."

Wall's ultimate summation: "Guys got to know their role. I think that’s the key."

Dan is on Twitter. Guys got to know when to lead, when to follow and when they're delicious A-1 sauce.

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