The Portland Trail Blazers enter next season with an interesting roster that mixes veterans with young talent.
Their veteran core stars Damien Lillard and Jule Holiday along with Jerami Grant. The younger core includes promising players such as Donovan Klingan, Shedon Sharp, Jan Hansen and Scoot Henderson.
The final name captured the attention of former player Jeff Teague as a potential breakout candidate.
Teague believes Henderson replicates Coby White’s dramatic improvements with the Chicago Bulls and can dive from modest production to the threat of legitimate scoring.
White’s conversion averages from 9.7 points per game to 19.1, and then 20.4 for subsequent seasons, is expected to be Teague of Henderson’s blueprint.
“For some reason, I think one of them will be spending Coby White years. Do you remember the way we all wrote him, I said, ‘He can’t dribble with his left hand.’ He came back and whatever it was, he was an average of 17 or 18,” Teague explained.
Henderson will enter his third NBA season with the Blazers after being selected as third overall in the 2023 draft. Despite high expectations, his production fell during the sophomore campaign.
However, the situation of potential breakthroughs next season is consistent with increased opportunities and better support structures.
Anfernee Simons’ trade with Boston created an opening where Henderson must assume responsibility for the main ball handling.
This role change could significantly unlock his offensive potential, and Henderson could also share his playmaking responsibilities with Hansen.
Holiday’s versatility allows him to play off-ball effectively, giving Henderson the space to develop point guard skills without competing for touch.
“I think this is the year. Simons is gone. They’ve got the dam back. It’ll be a good guy to work with. He’ll probably help a lot with jump shots.
Lillard’s Return offers elite guidance despite continuing to stand by his injuries. His guidance could accelerate Henderson’s shooting development and improvements in decision-making.
The combination of increased responsibility, veteran mentorship, and reduced competition over ball handling duties creates ideal conditions for Henderson’s growth.