Orlando Magic: Is this the year Aaron Gordon puts it together?

Recap

Gordon is off to a good start this season. In four preseason games, he averaged 14.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.0 steals in 20.2 minutes. Gordon needed a nice start because last season was a big disappointment for him.

Gordon’s career jumped to the next level in 2017-18 when he averaged a career-high of 17.6 points per game, and in 2018-19 he shot a career-high from 3-point range. He seemed primed to take another step, but the timing couldn’t have been worse. It understandably made some question him even further.

Experts around the league seem to be split on Gordon’s future. The Athletic’s Josh Robbins spoke to a scout who seemed bullish on Gordon:

"“I think the thing for him is he just has to realize that he has to accept that he is going to be a high-level role player — a borderline All-Star if he plays his role really well,” one scout said. “I think in his mind there are times when he sees himself in the same vein as some of the superstars, and I think sometimes that can get in his way. I think if he could just play in a system where he really just focuses on the things he does really well (that would be ideal).”"

But another scout was less than enthusiastic:

"“The bottom line is, should he be your best player? Obviously not. Should he be your second-best player? No. Maybe he’s your third-best player. We’re talking about championship-level aspirations. There are only so many good players to go around. I understand that. But is he really good enough? If he’s your fourth-best player, yes, I’m fine with that. But third best? What does he do? He’s an OK shooter. He can score. Does he make anybody better?”"

“Does he make anybody better?” I’ll refer you to the previous slide, Mr. Anonymous scout.

There are two Aaron Gordons. I love the aggressive rebounder who can make plays for his teammates in the half-court and transition while also defending multiple positions. When the other guy rears his ugly head, things get complicated.

Orlando has a tough decision to make on Gordon. Giving up on him would be the wrong move. He’s still so young.