Gerald

Henderson

“The big thing is my injuries,” said Henderson. “I’ve had six surgeries since 2008. Wrist surgery. Hip surgeries. Achilles surgery. They piled up, among other injuries that haven’t needed surgery. They just kind of accumulated and made it very difficult to play and to play healthy, to put everything into actual basketball.” Henderson will end his career with averages of 11.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game.

Henderson should be owned but is likely to need a few games to get up to speed, so reserve him unless you have no alternatives. Reggie Williams, who has been slumping, heads back to the bench.

Paul Silas is still reportedly considering whether or not to start him, but Henderson is set to return on Wednesday for the Bobcats. He hasn’t played in a game since February 1 and will likely be limited in his minutes whether he’s starting or coming off the bench. He had been averaging 15.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 0.9 steals prior to getting hurt.

Henderson was the Bobcats’ MVP this season as he averaged 15.1 points per game, but his fantasy game leaves a lot to be desired. He managed a meager 0.9 steals, 0.4 blocks, 2.3 assists and 0.2 3-pointers per game. Taking a major leap forward in 3-point shooting would be big, but it’s easier said than done.

Henderson is going to score, but doesn’t do much more in terms of fantasy. He’s worth a look in many leagues, but a guy like Devin Harris, Linas Kleiza or Jordan Crawford is probably a better way to use a waiver-wire pickup.

DeSagana Diop will start in his place and is not a fantasy option. The Bobcats are all shook up right now and anybody not named D.J. Augustin, Gerald Henderson, or Corey Maggette are risky bets. Kemba Walker is hitting a rough patch but is always going to be worth a look, and from there it’s anybody’s guess who will get minutes and produce for Paul Silas.

We’ll cut Henderson some slack while he gets his sea legs underneath him, but having shown little upside to date his leash is shorter than most starters in his position.

Henderson has enough promise to be owned in all 12-team leagues, but because he hasn’t been able to consistently hit threes, get steals, and block shots his upside is capped.

Henderson has missed eight consecutive games with the injury. “He’s running around now and jogging but no contact yet,” said coach Paul Silas. “We’re going to practice when we get home and if he’s there for contact then possibly he will play.”

The Bobcats are 4-30 and riding a five-game losing streak, so clearly they need whatever production Henderson can give them. He’s still available in over half of fantasy leagues.