Trail Blazers Secure Contract Extensions for Three Players
The Portland Trail Blazers have announced contract extensions for three players: guard Scoot Henderson, forward Kris Murray, and center Donovan Clingan. This decision comes just before the team’s season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Details of the Contract Extensions
The Blazers exercised their team options on the players’ contracts, a routine move for the organization. All three players were selected in the first round of previous drafts.
Scoot Henderson
- Position: Guard
- Season Experience: Third season with the Blazers
- Current Status: Sidelined with a left hamstring tear
- Last Season Stats: Averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.0 rebounds
Kris Murray
- Position: Forward
- Season Experience: Third season
- Last Season Stats: Averaged 4.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 15.1 minutes per game
Donovan Clingan
- Position: Center
- Season Experience: Rookie
- Last Season Stats: Averaged 6.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks
Additional Contract Extensions for Key Players
Recently, the Blazers also secured significant extensions for two other players. Guard Shaedon Sharpe signed a four-year contract valued at $90 million. Forward Toumani Camara agreed to an $82 million deal over four years.
Performance Highlights
- Shaedon Sharpe: Averaged 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists last season.
- Toumani Camara: Averaged 11.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. He was also recognized for his defensive skills, ranking ninth in the league with 1.5 steals per game and earning All-Defensive second team honors.
Coach’s Perspective
Blazers coach Chauncey Billups commented on the contract extensions, noting the relief they bring to players facing the pressures of the season. “It alleviates so much stress,” he stated. “You can really focus on trying to be the best that you can be.”
Upcoming Game Preview
For the season opener on Wednesday, the starting lineup will include Shaedon Sharpe, Toumani Camara, Donovan Clingan, Jrue Holiday, and Deni Avdija. The team is poised to perform well as they embark on the new season.
