The Portland Trail Blazers announced an upgrade in guard Scoot Henderson’s injury status ahead of their Tuesday evening clash against the Phoenix Suns, aiming to break a five-game losing slide. Henderson, who suffered a left hamstring tear during training camp, is now classified as doubtful for the 8:00 p.m. PT game, signifying progress in his recovery as Portland struggles to regain momentum this season.
Selected third overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, Henderson has yet to debut this season but has recently begun on-court practice activities. The 22-year-old resumed training last Friday, gradually increasing his involvement with the team in preparation for a potential return.
Interim head coach Tiago Splitter provided insight following practice on Henderson’s recovery timeline.
He’s able to do some contact now,
Splitter said, per The Rose Garden Report’s Sean Highkin.
Getting better. I don’t have a date for you yet, but he’s doing a lot and feeling well after practice.
– Tiago Splitter, Interim Head Coach
Henderson’s Previous Performance and Potential Impact on Team Dynamics
Last season, Henderson appeared in 65 games and started 10, averaging 12.7 points, 5.1 assists, and three rebounds per game. Defensively, he contributed one steal per contest, while shooting 41.9% from the field and 35.4% beyond the arc in nearly 27 minutes on the floor. His return is expected to enhance Portland’s ball-handling options and provide support as the franchise evaluates its younger players in pursuit of a playoff berth.
Additional Injury Concerns Affecting the Blazers’ Lineup
Beyond Henderson, Portland’s injury list includes forward Deni Avdija, who is doubtful with a low back strain, and veteran guard Jrue Holiday, listed as questionable due to personal issues. Avdija participated most recently in the Trail Blazers’ 127-97 loss to the New York Knicks on Friday, recording 11 points, five rebounds, three assists, and one block in 28 minutes, despite struggling with his shooting efficiency.
The 25-year-old forward is enjoying a career-best season and recently secured his first NBA All-Star selection for the upcoming All-Star Weekend, set to take place in Los Angeles at Intuit Dome from February 13-15. Avdija boasts averages of 25.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game while shooting 46.7% from the floor and 35.6% from three-point range across 44 games.
Holiday, a 35-year-old veteran in his inaugural season with Portland, has been a consistent presence, contributing 14.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per contest. He has also maintained solid shooting percentages, hitting 43% from the field and 35.3% from distance during 21 games and 19 starts. His most recent appearance came amid the loss to New York, where he recorded five points, four assists, and two rebounds in 22 minutes.
Upcoming Schedule and Playoff Implications for Portland
Following their game with Phoenix, the Blazers will continue a five-game homestand, hosting the Memphis Grizzlies twice on Friday and Saturday. Sitting 10th in the Western Conference standings, Portland is focused on stabilizing its rotation and improving consistency as it aims to rise in the playoff race.
