John Henson's Stock Up While Tar Heels Sit With Injuries
John Henson is the latest player to take advantage of his new found playing times, which came at the expense of some Tar Heel teammates' injuries. Star sophomore forward, Ed Davis, is likely out the rest of the season with a broken wrist, while a key role player and emerging post presence, Tyler Zeller, is slow to get back into his rhythm after missing 10 games with a foot injury. Toss in injuries to the Wear brothers and that leaves a whole lot of playing time up for grabs.
Former high school All-American, John Henson, has made the most of his teammates' injuries and solidified a starting role over the past few games. The 6'10" freshman forward has logged 20+ minutes in six straight games, gaining invaluable experience and becoming more comfortable on the offensive end. He is averaging 10 points and 8 rebounds and 3 blocks a game during this stretch. He is finally getting the minutes needed to showcase his skills for NBA scouts and front offices for the upcoming June 2010 NBA Draft.
Although there is talk of Henson jetting for the NBA next year, he should most definitely return for his sophomore year with a more defined role and another year to grow into his body and add strength. He could be drafted towards the end of the 1st Round based on potential and promise as a small forward at the next level, or he could stay in Chapel Hill, work on his perimeter shooting and be a lottery/mid-round pick in 2011. The NBA is just as much about the future as it is the present, so there is no doubt Henson could get drafted just to sit on the bench or play in the NBDL and develop.
By Corey Ruff - President - 3-2-10
