Friday was a hotly-anticipated night for the Portland Trail Blazers. It was Scoot Henderson‘s return after missing the first 51 games of the season. He is a massive boost to the Blazers’ offense and Tiago Splitter’s system.
How Scoot Henderson’s Return Changes the Blazers Offense
For the first 51 games of the season, the Portland Trail Blazers lacked dynamism in the point guard position. Jrue Holiday has done well to be the veteran point guard, but he does not provide Scoot Henderson’s dynamic offense.
Since Holiday has missed his fair share of games, Deni Avdija took over as the point guard for the Blazers. In the long run, the Blazers need a true point guard, which is why Henderson’s return is a big deal. He was superb in his first game back, putting up 11 points, five rebounds, and nine assists.
The Blazers looked much better than before because they had a facilitator. Henderson shot the ball several times, but he was intent on making plays for his teammates.
The Blazers’ Offense Looked Instantly Better With Henderson
While Holiday and Avdija are fantastic in their own right, Henderson brought new energy to the team. Everyone knows that Henderson is an athletic marvel, but they often miss out on his best qualities. He is not just an athletic point guard; he is a tried and true playmaker.
Henderson is always looking for his teammates with his superb vision and willingness to pass. This could backfire at times with his numerous turnovers, but it shows trust in his teammates. The Blazers are much better when everyone is confident rather than repetitive isolation plays.
ENERGY 📈📈📈 pic.twitter.com/lBnyxDSjbM
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) February 7, 2026
Over the past few months, Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe have been fantastic. However, they are quite reliant on playing isolation basketball, which has dampened the Blazers’ offensive potential. Holiday is a solid playmaker, but he is an older player, so the dynamism is not present that often.
Against the Memphis Grizzlies, Henderson and the Blazers were playing faster basketball on offense. That is significant because the Blazers might love running, but only in transition. In the half-court setup, the ball moved well, while the Grizzlies scrambled to catch up.
Henderson’s Return Is A Sign Of What’s To Come
Now that Henderson has returned, there is so much more to be excited about Portland. The Blazers have a talented squad, but they just came off a six-game skid. Henderson played a role in ending that streak, and he will look to be a crucial cog moving forward.
He will be an important part of Tiago Splitter’s system as a primary playmaker. Henderson and Holiday can play together like they did multiple times against Memphis. However, Henderson can also lead the Blazers’ offense by himself and maximize everyone’s strengths.
Scoot x Clingan pic.twitter.com/SMs2Ayezhn
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) November 5, 2024
Dating back to the 2024-25 season, he and Donovan Clingan have a solid connection. With Clingan’s growth as a three-point shooter, their partnership could be much more dynamic than a pick-and-roll.
Henderson’s partnership with Sharpe also stands out. They are the long-term answer in the backcourt, and against the Grizzlies, their minutes did not match up. In the long run, that should be something the Blazers must explore because the potential is through the roof.
Splitter’s System Is Getting A Boost For The Second Half
Feb 6, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson (00) drives to the basket during the first half against Memphis Grizzlies guard Javon Small (10) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Now that the NBA is in the second half of the season, the Blazers are getting a much-needed boost. They are the team that has missed their players the most due to injuries. Henderson’s return is significant because he brings tons of positive energy to Portland.
Splitter’s system has needed a true playmaker of Henderson’s caliber. Holiday is good, but he does not get the team going with his speed. Splitter loves playing a drive-and-kick offense, which Henderson specializes in. He can get a paint touch with his athleticism and strength.
This benefits the rest of the team as they get open looks. With the trade for Vit Krejci, they have an established shooter to benefit. The likes of Jerami Grant and Toumani Camara will also love this, as they are positive shooters.
Splitter’s system has much better potential compared to before Henderson came back. If they remain healthy, the postseason push could happen.
© Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images