Scott Henderson still seeking rhythm amid Blazers’ strong start

The Trail Blazers are 6-3, which gives them plenty to feel good about. It doesn’t mean everyone is playing well.

Scoot Henderson’s start is one concern, particularly with Ja Morant sidelined and more responsibility available in the backcourt.

As Jeremy Brener notes in Blazers On SI’s early-season stock report, Henderson hasn’t carried a promising preseason into the games that count. He’s shooting below 33 percent from the field and has made just six of 36 attempts from beyond the arc.

Moving into the starting lineup hasn’t produced the hoped-for breakthrough. Nine games won’t settle Henderson’s future, but Portland could certainly use more from him now.

That said, there have been encouraging developments elsewhere.

Sahal Arwo, contributing to the same report, points to Sidy Cissoko’s improved confidence and ability to operate off the dribble. Cissoko has become a useful rotation option at a position where the Blazers need help.

Yang Hansen also made the most of an opportunity against the Spurs, recording a double-double in 26 minutes with Robert Williams III unavailable. Rocco Moschella highlighted that performance as evidence of Yang’s potential value, even with Williams and Donovan Clingan established ahead of him.

Meanwhile, Vit Krejci’s fractured ankle has interrupted what Brener described as a productive start. There is no timetable for his return.

That leaves Portland trying to maintain its winning pace while sorting through injuries and uneven production. Cissoko and Yang have offered reasons for optimism. Getting Henderson going would make the job considerably easier.

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