Gerald Henderson

Gerald Henderson, #15 SG, Duke
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 215 lbs

Strengths:
- Mid-range game
- Slashing abilities
- Catch and shoot
- Athletic
- Explosiveness
- Lateral quickness
- Wingspan
- Lockdown defender
- NBA type body
- Hustle
- Passing
- Rebounding
- Potential

Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent offensively
- Three-point shooting
- Creating own shot
- Changing directions with the ball

Summary:
Gerald Henderson is a freak athlete. That was the first thing I told myself the first time I saw him play as a freshman. He still continues to impress with his athletic abilities. He uses his quick first step and explosiveness to blow by defenders as he slashes towards the basket. When he makes his move, he is looking to score on a dunk, whether he gets fouled or not. This part of his game is where I have seen drastic improvement every year. He has looked to get to the rim more often throughout games, which has resulted in him making more trips to the line. When he gets to the line, he knocks down his free throws (converting on 76.1% of them this season). Henderson's mid-range game is nothing to scoff at either. He can comfortably pull up from 16'-20' out and knock down a jump shot. He is also very good at catching and shooting the basketball. His numbers do not lie; he has taken better shots this year, converting on 49% of his shot inside the arc. If Henderson does not have an open shot, he is able to find others in the offense because he is a very good passer.

There are some weaknesses in Henderson's offensive game, but nothing that can not be fixed. He is not a great three-point shooter, which is surprising because he possess nice form and elevation when he shoots. Earlier in his junior season he was converting approximately 50% of his three pointers, but that number has sense dropped off to 33.6%. He also is not great at creating his own shot. If he were to improve his ability to change directions with the ball in his hands, he may be able to create more separation and opportunities for an open shot or take better care of the ball when he slashes towards the basket.

Defensively, there is much to like about Henderson. He is a lockdown defender who possess great lateral quickness, hustle and heart. If he get beaten on the dribble, Henderson is quick enough to recover. When a shot is taken, he will challenge the shooter, and then proceed to crash the boards. He is good shot blocker and rebounder for a guard because of his wingspan and explosiveness (which allows him to get up and make a play on the ball). He can make a big difference on this end of the court, especially in the pros because of his skills, dedication and physical attributes.

Overall, Henderson is great prospect for the NBA. He has the skills, body, dedication and potential to be a solid player for many years. He is not always consistent on the offensive end of the floor, but his hustle and defensive play can certainly help almost any team looking at drafting Henderson.

Projection: mid- to late-lottery pick (7-12)

Best fit: **TBD**