Since Scoot Henderson was drafted, his time in Portland has been anything other than rosy. It’s been a grind for him, after he was exposed as a rookie for not being ready to be the star his hype promoted. Whether it was being sat for turning over the ball too much, or a hamstring tear that caused him to miss more than half of last season, there’s always been an obstacle for him. Both in and out of his control.
The latest comes in the form of the names in the guard room. Franchise legend, Damian Lillard
is returning with a chip on his shoulder and casts a massive shadow over this team, regardless of his age or health. Jrue Holiday is one of the greatest guards to play the game in the last 20 years, and a surefire future hall of famer, like Lillard. If this was a pilot briefing room, cue Tom Cruise’s Maverick from Top Gun walking in, as that is the equivalent of adding Ja Morant to this team.
We’re passing you the clipboard and Joe Cronin’s desk and phone. What is your vision for Scoot Henderson?
Do you try to extend him on a team friendly deal before the season starts? How much is he worth?
Is he in your long-term plan and you preach patience for another season?
Have you given up belief in him, and believe you should lead with him for making a deadline trade?
Do you believe he had a minor breakout during the playoffs, and you’re going to prioritize his minutes over the vets?
Do you let him hit restricted free agency next summer, after seeing many bigger named RFA’s get traded this summer?
Tell us how you’d navigate the next important phase of Sterling “Scoot” Henderson’s career.
