Trail Blazers bold predictions after 2024-25 season schedule release

The Portland Trail Blazers are still in a transitional phase, looking to build a new identity in a post-Damian Lillard world. Scoot Henderson was not exactly the big prize in the 2023 NBA Draft but the organization is ready to make the best of the situation. There were a lot worse outcomes after all and Chauncey Billups has plenty of talent to build a competitive squad.

Portland may not push for an NBA Playoffs spot this season, but they seem close to turning a corner as a franchise sooner rather than later. Henderson is seeking out second opinions after a rough rookie year. These ten bold predictions becoming a reality would go a long way to convincing Chauncey Billups and the Trail Blazers’ young locker room they are on the right path.

Henderson’s rookie season did not go as planned, leaving fans and analysts questioning his immediate impact. Despite the setbacks, there are several reasons to remain optimistic about his and the team’s future. Shooting 81.9% from the free throw line and 32.5% from three-point range as a 19-year-old in the NBA is impressive. The Trail Blazers can build on that and Henderson’s rim-pressuring drives this season to see what fits around the 2023 NBA Draft second overall pick.

Bold prediction: Henderson has a more middle-of-the-pack line in the traditional stats this season, earning some momentum as an NBA MIP candidate.

Shaedon Sharpe reaches sniper status

Shaedon Sharpe averaged 15.9 points per game last season. With Scoot better setting the table, Sharpe will knock down more shots this season. Just one more bucket per half gets the 21-year-old Canadian to the 20 PPG threshold that marks a truly elite offensive option.

Bold prediction: Sharpe will take a significant leap in his development, becoming a primary scoring option for the Trail Blazers. Expect him to average over 20 points per game, showcasing a scoring versatility that scares several Western Conference contenders.