Thu Jul 17 21:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Henderson Primed for Breakout Season as Blazers Clear Path

**Portland, OR -** The Portland Trail Blazers are banking on a significant leap forward from guard Scoot Henderson in the upcoming NBA season. Following the trade of Anfernee Simons for veteran Jrue Holiday, the Blazers have strategically opened up ball-handling opportunities, positioning Henderson to potentially become the team’s primary offensive initiator.

Head Coach Chauncey Billups has publicly identified Henderson as a breakout candidate. In a recent interview with ESPN, Billups attributed Henderson’s struggles last season to limited playing time and lingering injuries that prevented him from working on his game during the summer. “This year he’s been playing ball all summer, he’s been working on his game,” Billups stated. “Scoot is gonna take an incredible leap this year.”

Henderson, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, largely played off the bench last season, starting only 10 games. His usage rate ranked in the 56th percentile among guards. The trade of Simons is expected to drastically increase his usage and give the 21-year-old a greater platform to showcase his talent.

While increased opportunities are crucial, Billups emphasized the need for improved efficiency. Henderson’s effective field goal percentage ranked in the 29th percentile last season, a statistic he will need to improve to truly capitalize on his expanded role.

Henderson needs to demonstrate his potential as a future star and justify his high draft selection. The Blazers organization, and fans alike, are eagerly anticipating whether he can seize this opportunity.

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