Curtis Wilson-USA TODAY Sports
Gerald Henderson enjoyed the 2012-13 season for the Charlotte Bobcats. The team had a poor record but he had the best performance of his NBA career. In fact, the last two seasons for Henderson have been his best.
The last two coaches, including Mike Dunlap, have let Henderson do his thing. They’ve made sure he’s been getting a lot of minutes and he has ample opportunity to shoot the ball. Henderson is hoping that remains the deal when he sits down with new coach Steve Clifford, who’ll will have to decide if Henderson is still a key part of the Charlotte offense.
Henderson doesn’t want to go anywhere else, but he wants to play a key role for the team even as Charlotte builds to the future.
Clifford and the Bobcats management will send him a loud message when they announce their NBA draft pick. Many observers are saying that the Bobcats need more of a presence inside and that they don’t necessarily have to add another hot shot guard.
That could be true, but the franchise needs quality players at every position to present itself as a playoff contender. Henderson averaged 15.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. Clifford and his staff need to work on Henderson’s defense and he has to focus on that. He’s close to becoming a complete ballplayer but his defense has to improve.
The Bobcats have the No. 4 pick in the draft and many are suggesting they’ll go for a guard. If that’s the case. Henderson will not feel like he’s being appreciated.
