The Orlando Magic rank sixth overall in opponent’s turnover ratio since firing coach Jacque Vaughn early last month. Hyper-athletic plays like this chase-down block by Aaron Gordon from the team’s young, fleet-footed roster is the main reason why.
Gordon has always been a vexing prospect. Any team could use a player who possesses his blend of wild explosiveness and relentless motor, but the 19 year-old’s lack of offensive polish and ‘tweener forward status makes him a tough fit at the moment. The time qualifier is key here, of course. The Arizona product is the youngest player in basketball – he’ll eventually find a semi-reliable jumper, hone his underrated playmaking knack, and fill out his frame enough to both ably bang with power forwards and chase bigger wings on the perimeter.
For now, Gordon’s preternatural gifts and simple basketball instincts will have to suffice. And though his rookie season has been short due to a series of nagging injuries, the brief exhibitions of those attributes alone should have Magic fans thrilled for his future.
Victor Oladipo continued his excellent recent play for the Magic with 22 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in his team’s 103-98 win over the Boston Celtics.
