Dec 13, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Los Angeles Lakers small forward Xavier Henry (7) dribbles the ball in front of Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Reggie Jackson (15) during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
One of the bright spots early in the season was the play of the youngster Xavier Henry, who embraced the role as de facto point guard and had his fair share of big games. However, when he went out with a knee injury, not many knew the extent of the injury, nor his expected timetable. However, the Kansas product pushed too much in hopes of returning early, suffering a bit of a setback.
The injury always had a lot of confusion around it, as there was never an exact timetable for his return. What is certain, however, is the Lakers can badly use him. Other than being down to just a handful of healthy players, they are also down to just one point guard. Despite not being a true point guard, Henry did more than alright as a backup when the injuries first started piling up.
On the season, Henry is averaging career highs in points (10.1), rebounds (2.8), assists (1.2), field goal percentage (42.5%), and minutes (21.8). His been an integral role of this Lakers unit and was one of the standout performers early in the season. Being in a contract year (like nearly every other Laker), Henry is playing for a bigger pay day, so it’s understandable his drive to get back on the court.