Trail Blazers Secure Extensions for Henderson, Murray, Clingan and Reveal Opening Night Lineup

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Trail Blazers Secure Extensions for Henderson, Murray, Clingan and Reveal Opening Night Lineup

The Portland Trail Blazers have announced contract extensions for several of their players as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The organization exercised team options on guard Scoot Henderson, forward Kris Murray, and center Donovan Clingan, solidifying their contributions to the team.

Player Extensions and Performances

These extensions were confirmed just one day before the Blazers’ season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. All three players, Henderson, Murray, and Clingan, were former first-round picks in the NBA Draft.

Scoot Henderson: In his third season, Henderson is currently sidelined with a left hamstring tear. Last season, he averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.0 rebounds.
Kris Murray: Also in his third season, Murray averaged 4.2 points and 2.6 rebounds over 15.1 minutes per game last year.
Donovan Clingan: As a rookie, Clingan averaged 6.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in the previous season.

Recent Extensions

Additionally, the Blazers secured significant extensions for other players over the weekend. Guard Shaedon Sharpe signed a four-year extension valued at $90 million. Forward Toumani Camara received an $82 million four-year extension.

Shaedon Sharpe: He averaged 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists last season.
Toumani Camara: Key to the Blazers’ defense, he averaged 11.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, while ranking ninth in the league with 1.5 steals per game. Camara was honored as a member of the All-Defensive second team.

Coaching Insights

Blazers coach Chauncey Billups commented on the importance of these extensions, stating that they reduce stress for the players. “You can really now focus on trying to be the best that you can be,” he said. This approach emphasizes the need for players to excel without the burden of contract uncertainties.