In a hard-fought battle, Scoot Henderson’s standout performance alongside Deandre Ayton’s dominant showing led the Portland Trail Blazers (20-56) to an 89-86 victory over the Charlotte Hornets (18-58).

Henderson, the third overall pick, contributed 22 points and 10 assists, while Ayton delivered a commanding 24 points and 16 rebounds.

The matchup marked the first face-off between Henderson and Charlotte’s rookie Brandon Miller, who finished with 21 points for the Hornets, since both entered the NBA as top draft picks.

Jabari Walker also made significant contributions for the Trail Blazers with 14 points and a career-high 22 rebounds, amplifying their edge in rebounding against a short-handed Hornets lineup.

In a tense closing sequence, Henderson’s crucial assists and timely baskets gave Portland the edge, ultimately securing the hard-earned victory.