Scoot Henderson Can Shine Amid The Trail Blazers’ Injuries

Without Avdija and Sharpe, the Blazers have a limit on their potential. On offense, those two were reliable 20+ points per game scorers. Now, they have an inconsistent pairing of Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday as the top options.

Henderson has shown he can be aggressive, but he is still getting the hang of things. He does not have a minutes restriction anymore, so he can capitalize on his chances. It will be up to acting head coach Tiago Splitter to utilize everyone in the right role.

The Second Half Of The Season Is Henderson’s Opportunity

Henderson was absent for the majority of the first half of the 2025-26 season. That left Portland in a rut with their point guard position, especially when Holiday also suffered an injury. Avdija had to take over as the floor general, which was productive but suboptimal.

Since Avdija’s issues require the Blazers to be careful, Henderson could be the player who capitalizes. He is the most natural playmaker on the Blazers’ roster alongside Holiday. Henderson also speeds up the play like no other, which is what Splitter wants from his team.

Henderson got the starting role in their latest win against the Chicago Bulls. If he can co-exist with Holiday more, Henderson can slot into the Avdija and Sharpe void. It will be challenging, but he is talented enough to live up to that role.

Blake Wesley can also play a solid role when needed. He is more of a defensive player, but he can also pick up the pace for Portland. As long as they are playing with pace and strength, Splitter will continue with his preferred play style.

Avdija’s Issues Could Lead To More Breakout Players

Avdija earned his All-Star selection this season, but the back injury is concerning. Resting him would be the best choice at the moment because they need him to be fully healthy. They will most likely reach the Play-In Tournament, so having a healthy Avdija could push them over the edge.

In the meantime, Henderson should take over. He is in his third season, so he should deliver on his potential. Of course, he is still fresh from an injury, but there’s no better time than now.

The Blazers need Henderson to step up and prove himself. He will have a good supporting cast with Holiday and Grant. Henderson and Clingan have shown they have solid chemistry in the 2024-25 season. Henderson’s opportunity to shine will involve their superb dynamic.

Splitter has to make adjustments, as he usually plays Henderson off the ball. Holiday can also play more without the ball, considering he is a positive three-point shooter. As long as they are more dynamic, the Blazers can finally reach the postseason.