To The Tin

Henderson's scoring ability makes him a first-round lock.

Duke players have developed a reputation for being soft in recent years, but it’s difficult to question Gerald Henderson’s toughness – just ask Tyler Hansbrough. Henderson is one of several talent wings expected to be selected in the top-15 of the NBA draft. His numbers throughout his three years at Duke (12.2 ppg, 4.2 rpg, more turnovers per game than assists) aren’t overly impressive, but he has considerable upside and will be a hot commodity in the draft.

TTT presents a look at Gerald Henderson’s NBA future:

Strengths

One of the most athletic players in college basketball. Explosive leaper, quick, and fast. Wiry strong; has gained weight in preparation for the draft. A pure scorer with the ability to finish at the basket. Excellent in transition, active on the offensive glass. A capable mid-range shooter, especially off the dribble. Better passer than given credit for. Good help defender and has instincts to play the passing lanes.  A strong competitor who will get the most out of his ability.

Weaknesses

Like most Duke players, Henderson isn’t a great one-on-one defender.  Shot is probably better than numbers (32.5 percent career 3-point shooter) indicate, but still needs a ton of work.  Has an explosive first step going right, much slower going left.  Not a great ball-handler and struggles to make good decisions at times.  Will force tough shots inside against bigger defenders.  Solidly built, but only 6′4 1/2″.  Played mostly forward in college, but will be a shooting guard in the NBA – putting more pressure on him to improve his shot.  Still relatively raw despite three years at Duke.

Breakdown

Draftexpress.com projects Henderson to stay in North Carolina after being selected by the Charlotte Bobcats with the 12th overall pick.  The Bobcats are one of several teams interested in Henderson; the T’Wolves also have strong interest after he impressed during a workout for the team.  Youngsters DeMar DeRozan, Tyreke Evans, and Jrue Holiday have more “potential” so will probably selected before Henderson, making it likely for him to land outside the top-10.

Defense will most likely be Henderson’s calling card in the NBA.  His lack of a reliable jumper will limit his scoring ability early in his career.  Skills suggest he will be Raja Bell at worst, Latrell Sprewell (without the attitude) at best.  Henderson is without question one of the safest picks in the entire draft.