UPDATE (September 27 at 2:00 PM): There’s currently no timetable for Xavier Henry’s recovery, according to Mark Medina of the L.A. Daily News:
Henry's left wrist has healed, but limited to running on weight-bearing treadmill bc of knee. Lakers do not have timetable for his recovery
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) September 27, 2014
Xavier Henry’s promising season was derailed due to injuries. A knee issue as well as a torn ligament in his wrist put a damper on what looked like a breakout campaign.
— Have You Seen These LIMITED EDITION “All LIN For LA” T-Shirts? —
Henry had surgery to repair both of these issues, but no one is sure if he will be completely healed by the time training camp begins. According to Lakers Reporter Mike Trudell, Henry’s wrist is fine, but the knee isn’t ready yet:
Xavier Henry's continuing to rehabilitate his knee through basketball related activities, but isn't yet playing in games. His wrist is good.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) September 16, 2014
Missing any significant time of training camp and possibly preseason would put Henry behind the eight ball to begin this season. Under a new head coach, Henry will need to learn the new offensive and especially defensive systems and that becomes much more difficult if he isn’t on the court.
Henry also runs the risk of falling further down the depth chart if he isn’t available immediately. With Wesley Johnson likely to start at the small forward position, and Nick Young sure to garner plenty of minutes at both wing positions, consistent playing time could be hard to come by.
— Lakers Nation BLOWOUT SALE! Shirts Start At $12.50 + Free Shipping! Use Code: REDEMPTION —
Add in rookie Jordan Clarkson, who impressed many with his play this off-season, and Henry could very easily find himself on the end of the bench before he has a chance to make an impact this year.
The good news for Henry is that the Lakers know what he can do when he is healthy. He posted career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals in 43 games last season.
[divide]Byron Scott To Limit Kobe Bryant’s Minutes, Plus Talks Starting Lineup