Orlando Magic: 5 reasons re-signing Aaron Gordon was the right choice
By Bret Stuter
2. Positions team for better things
The Orlando Magic cannot be looking at the 2018-19 season with an intention of getting to the playoffs. That roster construction is far too heavily slanted toward the frontcourt. As of today, the team has eight players whose roles are either center or power forward. Of course, the team has up to 20 roster spots until they must cut players for the regular season limit of 15, but the tilt toward big men is apparent.
Aaron Gordon is a big player.
Still, there is a method to the madness. Recall that versatility? Gordon can play a small-ball center, or slide down to small forward if need be. That allows the Magic to field the best five players. Right now, the team is incubating the skill-sets of 2017 first round pick Jonathan Isaac. At 6’10” and 210 pounds, he has the potential to own a starting role when his play warrants a starting role.
The Magic still have a lot to figure out with the frontcourt of Gordon, Isaac and Mohamed Bamba, but without the presence of Gordon and his ability to play multiple roles on the team, none of this works. On the other hand, with Gordon, the team can build various lineups in multiple ways.