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Scoot Henderson Shows Blazers’ Star Qualities Amid Struggles

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Pocholo Magsino | Last updated Mar 10, 2026 7:23 PM ET

The Portland Trail Blazers are ready to fight for a postseason berth this season. Deni Avdija is the Blazers’ star, but more players on the roster who are hungry. Despite Scoot Henderson‘s struggles, he wants to stand out within Tiago Splitter’s system.

Scoot Henderson Shows Blazers’ Star Qualities Amid Struggles

Since the 2023 NBA Draft, the Portland Trail Blazers have waited for Scoot Henderson to realize his potential. The talent is there alongside the physical qualities, but he has not consistently showcased his potential. He is the supposed franchise point guard, but he has not convinced the franchise.

Before the 2023 Draft, excitement was at an all-time high for Henderson. Many saw him as the closest prospect to Victor Wembanyama because of their Summer League duel in the prior year. Unfortunately, Wemby has reached unreal heights while Henderson’s struggles continue in Portland.

Henderson Wants To Be The Trail Blazers’ Star Player

Ever since he returned to the Blazers’ rotation, Henderson has changed the Blazers’ offense. Even when he is not shooting well, the ball is moving faster, and everyone knows their roles better. Earlier in the season, the offense looked disjointed even when Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe were playing well. Unfortunately, the numbers do not back up the notion that he has been a positive addition.

“I feel like for me, it’s about the next play mentality. So whether it’s going right or wrong, honestly, it’s always ‘last play is over,'” Henderson said about his mindset. “Like I said, next play. That’s just me as a person, man. If it doesn’t go right, I’m not trippin. I never get too high, never get too low.”

Henderson has not been an efficient shooter, and he turns the ball over quite frequently. It is harsh because he has a positive impact within Tiago Splitter’s system, but the numbers are difficult to ignore. Thankfully, he has a good approach to his struggles because he is always looking forward to the next play.

Scoot Henderson needed this game more than ever

But while he’ll need to do it a few more times before fully silencing the ‘bust’ allegations, Scoot was able to remind everyone what he was capable of

And, man, are the flashes still bright when he’s onpic.twitter.com/0Rf5Q9uJiq https://t.co/2S24xxpJyV

— Point Made Basketball (@pointmadebball) March 9, 2026

That is a sign that Henderson wants to be the Blazers’ star player. Despite all the struggles he is going through, he wants to be the one responsible for Portland’s victories. This was evident in his performance on Sunday against the Indiana Pacers, when he posted 28 points, three rebounds, and six assists.

The Blazers Can Resolve Henderson’s Struggles

Mar 8, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson (00) shoots a jump shot during the second half against Indiana Pacers guard Kobe Brown (24) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Before his bounce-back performance against Indiana, Henderson was truly struggling. Most Blazers fans want him to do well, but his recent performances were not a good look. Since most people saw him as the successor to Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday, it was disappointing.

The Blazers can be much better if Henderson is more consistent with his performances. Everyone knows that he is capable of doing more, but his struggles remain unresolved. The Trail Blazers can help him get past that, but Henderson must step up.

"I'm able to be more and invest more when there's something to pour into." — @Dame_Lillard on a mentorship role, first person he mentions is working with Scoot Henderson

— Casey Holdahl (@CHold) July 22, 2025

Against the Pacers, he had a promising performance. He was more decisive with how he drove into the paint, and he was in rhythm during his jump shots. The potential is always there, but he needs to be consistent and decisive.

Acting head coach Tiago Splitter should encourage him further, as Henderson is a valuable player. During his spell on the sidelines, every Blazers fan knew he could be the solution to Portland’s problems on offense. If he can play as he did against Indiana more often, his rotation with Holiday is dangerous.

Standing Out In Splitter’s System Can Be Tough

Henderson is talented enough to be an NBA star. He is a superb playmaker with a wide array of passes in his arsenal. During his three NBA seasons, he has shown he can improve with his shooting. The athleticism is always there, so getting to the bucket is easy for him.

Unfortunately, Henderson has not put it all together just yet. Within Splitter’s system, he can be one of the Blazers’ best players. Of course, he still needs to get his rhythm, but the potential is there.

Moving forward, the talks about being the potential Blazers’ star should be met. It will be hard for Henderson, but he must meet the expectations. Some fans are becoming more vocal, and they might give up on him sooner rather than later.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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