The Damian Lillard era of the Portland Trail Blazers is officially over, with the team deciding to go with another youth movement led by rookie guard Scoot Henderson, who is already exuding confidence as arguably the new leader of this franchise.
With the Lillard saga now officially over, with the team bringing in Deandre Ayton, Malcolm Brogdon, and Robert Williams III, the Blazers can focus on the immediate future and hopefully putting a competitive team on the floor ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season.
Although the Blazers are expected to struggle during the upcoming season, Henderson seems to be embracing his role as the next face of the franchise in Portland while saying all the right things during the team’s Media Day.
One thing is for sure: Henderson does not lack confidence as he’s not dealing with the pressure of playing in Lillard’s shadow but is ready to pave his own path while wearing a Blazers uniform, via Orlando Sanchez of KGW TV.
"The only pressure I have is from myself, to be the best version of myself. To go out there and kill my opponent, to help my team win. There's no pressure to be the new Dame. It's a new era for a reason, so I'm here to be Scoot Henderson."
On pressure to be next Dame#RipCity pic.twitter.com/SJgrdxA4x3
— Orlando Sanchez (@orlandokgw) October 2, 2023
Even though growing pains are expected, a fresh start with Henderson is looking more and more like the smart move for the franchise.
There’s no telling when this team might be a legitimate threat in the Western Conference with so many changes in Portland, but the future does seem bright with the rookie guard at the helm, as he clearly has the right attitude of a leader who’s is ready to lead this franchise.
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