Los Angeles Lakers: Xavier Henry’s Return
By Chris Walton
The Los Angeles Lakers got off to a good start in Monday’s preseason victory against the Denver Nuggets, 98-95. Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash looked healthier than they have since last season, and both rookies Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson had good moments. Ed Davis also showed why he was one of the free agency steals with some nifty moves on offense and a big defensive presence. Along with the win and player progress, they received two positives on the evening regarding the team’s health.
Lakers reserve, Nick Young, underwent successful surgery on his injured right thumb. After some incidental contact with Kobe Bryant, Young tore a ligament in his shooting hand. He is expected to miss at least the first 15 games of the season. The quicker that Young recovers will be better for the Lakers. His scoring will be missed from the bench, and even the charisma he displays on the court will. One good sign is Byron Scott still having Young participate in the team’s conditioning. Every day that he continues activity, it lessens the time it’ll take for Young to stay in shape upon returning.
Lakers Reporter, Mike Trudell, spoke with guard Xavier Henry, and it appears that he planned a return before Thurday’s preseason game. Henry was limited in camp due to knee rehabilitation, but after being cleared for practice, back spasms kept him out of last week’s sessions. Henry participated in several walk-throughs during Tuesday and Wednesday’s practice. As a precaution, Byron Scott has kept him out of running drills and scrimmages, but next week should feature Henry. His return will hopefully soften the blow of Young’s injury.
As Henry watches from the sideline, he has been able to identify where he will fit with this year’s team. Having another initiator of the offense like Henry can help the Lakers frontcourt get easier shots. His strength is getting to the basket, and drawing contact once he’s there. Per Basketball Reference, Henry had a total of 14 games where he attempted at least five free-throws. Last night’s contest featured some of the Lakers’ backcourt ability to get into the lane when needed, and the agenda appears no different when Henry is back.
Henry is not the shooter that Young is known to be. He only shot 41.7 percent from the field last year. If he can find a way to spread the floor for Los Angeles, his presence will be an added bonus. Defensively, he can use his size at 6’6 to slow down opposing scorers. Wes Johnson, who is suffering from a slight knee strain, is the only true small forward on the roster. Henry could step into the backup role rather comfortably. Last season, he spent time alongside both Nick Young, and Jodie Meeks. Adding him along with Kobe could give the Lakers a unique offensive look.
As Henry gets his conditioning and rhythm, the encouraging signs of his return can’t be ignored. Last year was full of career-highs in minutes (21.1), points (10), and shooting (41.7 percent). Building on his performance will definitely solidify his status in the league as a valuable role player. The first step is getting back to the basics on the court, followed by filling in the shoes of what the Lakers need in terms of scoring and depth. Right now may be the best time for Henry to stand out during his career.