Scoot Henderson is the Portland Trail Blazers’ most perplexing player. Most people know he has the potential to shine, but his first two seasons were a bit disappointing. He could be the Blazers’ star in Chauncey Billups’ system, but the clock is ticking.
The Time Is Now For Scoot Henderson To Be The Blazers Star
With a more promising roster compared to previous years, Portland is ready to compete. 2025-26 could be a make-or-break year for the Blazers. The same goes for Henderson, who will be in his third season and has something to prove.
Many have dubbed him the Blazers’ future star ever since the Damian Lillard trade in 2023. In his first two seasons, Henderson has not lived up to those expectations. The potential is there, but the development has not gone as well as the fans hoped. With the Blazers’ point guard problem following the addition of Jrue Holiday, Henderson might have a shorter leash.
Jan 16, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups encourages guard Scoot Henderson (00) during the second half against the LA Clippers at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
Fans Are Waiting For The Blazers’ Star Player
Since the Lillard trade, the Blazers have not had a superstar player. Henderson became the obvious choice because he was a point guard taking over Lillard’s spot. Unfortunately for him, he did not have the optimal pathway because of Anfernee Simons‘ presence.
Buy Scoot Henderson stock while you can
We aren’t looking back after this season https://t.co/IkEapcTXpR pic.twitter.com/MYb7qwEVX2
— Point Made Basketball (@pointmadebball) July 27, 2025
In the past two years, the 21-year-old has been behind Simons in the rotation. With Holiday, that could be an issue again, so the window is closing for Henderson. It will be up to Billups’ system to maximize his promising point guard.
Fans are clamoring for a star to take over, and Henderson could be that player. Fellow youngster Shaedon Sharpe is also a candidate for this. Sharpe can take the next step to become the Blazers’ star, especially due to his offensive capabilities. However, his slow development might be discouraging.
Being Lillard’s Successor Is Challenging
The Trail Blazers always build around a star draft pick, a successful model they’ve used over the years. Lillard was the latest superstar, representing the team for over a decade. After his move to the Milwaukee Bucks, the team needed a star, and Henderson’s potential was enticing. He was unable to take significant leaps in his development, particularly in terms of shooting efficiency.
Scoot Henderson sharing the video of Damian Lillard’s return.
Obviously the duo didn’t play together in Portland and won’t next year, but still, Henderson hasn’t had a leader like Dame around and I’m excited to watch that play out. pic.twitter.com/aqepKrAsD6
— Brenna Greene (@BrennaGreene_) July 17, 2025
To be a team’s superstar, a player needs opportunities to shine. That was not the case for Henderson in his first two years. It also did not help that he was struggling with his scoring. He showed tremendous potential as a playmaker, but he needed more reps as a scorer.
With the 2025-26 season coming up, Henderson has more opportunities. Lillard is also back, so he has a mentor to guide him through being a better offensive player. Holiday can also help him on the defensive end, so he is getting valuable advice for that heavy superstar role.
The Blazers Have The Tools To Be A Top Team
For the 2025-26 season, the Blazers have a blueprint for their success. Billups’ system relies on their elite defense. Toumani Camara has been excellent in his first two seasons. He is ready to be the team’s star defender and the league’s top stopper.
However, Portland still has issues offensively. That is where Henderson must step up, because he is a playmaker with good upside as a scorer. He must do his best to help the team, and with Lillard’s guidance, Henderson’s potential could be unlocked. It will be challenging, but he usually thrives in a tough environment. As the team continues to improve, the Blazers will be a difficult opponent for everyone.
Featured image: Allan Henry-Imagn Images