With the 12th pick of the 2009 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Bobcats selected: Gerald Henderson of Duke. The 6-5 shooting guard joins the NBA after his junior season, during which he was named All-ACC First team and Honorable Mention All-Defensive Team. Oh and did I mention that he went to Duke? See, that is a big deal because some of the Bobcats staff went to UNC...you know what, I cannot do it. I am already sick of the big deal that was made about that last night during the draft coverage. It is stupid to think a team would not consider a player because of a college rivalry - the next writer or analyst who mentions it gets bonus points for being lazy. Ok, rant over.
Back to Gerald: Thanks to advanced computer image generation techniques, here is an early look at what he might look like in a Bobcats jersey next season. Ok, so I am really bad (and kind of lazy) with Photoshop. As you can tell from Gerald's hairline, he is not one of the youngest players in the draft: Henderson is 21 now and will be 22 in December. The good news is that he should be able to contribute from the start, as a capable backup to Raja Bell - and not unlike Bell either. Henderson has a solid mid-range game, a developing perimeter shot, long arms and a defensive tenacity that should endear him to Larry Brown.
Time for some clips: We start with my favorite.
This next one shows off a bit more of his defensive presence.
So, an introduction to Gerald Henderson for those who may have been curious. Weigh in on the Bobcats pick in the comments.
I think this could be a bad pick because Ray won't pass him the ball. Yeah, just kidding. Enjoyed the post; hopefully, he will be a good add.
Sat Jun 27, 2009 12:30 pm
Mike Says:
I agree with the article. A rivalry like UNC-Duke shouldn't hinder where a player should be drafted. If anything those who happen to be UNC and Bobcats fans should be thankful. He's no longer a threat at Duke, he is now a threat on your NBA team.
Mon Jun 29, 2009 1:15 pm
GyJuan Says:
I think the Cats did a solid job. The draft had some solid talent, but got team needs we got a true player. I am a huge fan and another good wing/high riser other than Gerald Wallace should help the guards to take their game to the next level, which will ultimately lead to more victories!
Thu Jul 02, 2009 7:20 pm
Cabeza Says:
Given the lack of talent in this draft, a solid (but unspectacular) pick. He should fit in with the Bobcats; a good defensive player with limited offensive punch. I think he could be better than solid if he played on an up and down team (with a dominant player who could create shots), but the Bobcats play so slow. I think he and Gerald will complement each other nicely.
