Scoot Henderson has lengthy been thought-about the second-best expertise within the 2023 NBA Draft, behind the generational Victor Wembanyama. However on draft evening 2023, he fell to the Portland Path Blazers at No. 3.
On the time, many seen the transfer as a mistake on the Hornets’ half. However a yr later, whereas Henderson has but to search out his NBA rhythm, opinions are beginning to change.
There is no doubt that Henderson had a tough first season within the NBA, regardless of some causes for optimism towards the tip. He scored round 14 factors per sport, a very good mark, however he did so on simply 39% taking pictures from the sphere, together with 33% from past the arc.
As if the scoring woes weren’t sufficient, he additionally dedicated 3.4 turnovers per sport, which tied for fifth in all the league. Solely the way more impactful Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Cade Cunningham completed forward of Henderson.
However there have been causes to be optimistic.
Over his final 12 video games, Henderson has scored a a lot better 19.3 factors on 42% taking pictures, hitting 40% of his six threes tried per sport. He did not tone down his turnovers — greater than 5 per sport throughout that span — however he actually seemed extra like an NBA beginning guard.
Many thought it’d take Henderson a season to get acclimated to the NBA. However his opening efficiency towards the Clippers on Friday evening did not essentially encourage confidence going ahead.
In half-hour, Henderson scored simply 13 factors on 16 complete photographs, as soon as once more exhibiting a turnover tendency with seven fumbles. General, it was a horrible evening for a fan who thought enchancment might have been proven.
That is, in fact, solely the primary preseason sport, and Henderson can have loads of time to determine issues out with the rebuilding Path Blazers. However he will certainly want to indicate progress in yr two with a view to show himself to the franchise shifting ahead.
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