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5 Things We Learned About Aaron Gordon in 2015-16

Josh Cohen
Digital News Manager

By Josh CohenApril 29, 2016

Aaron Gordon might be the most athletic player in the league

Gordon put on a show for the ages in the dunk contest at NBA All-Star Weekend in Toronto (Recap). He also had several jaw-dropping jams in games during the season. All this agility and athleticism has made Gordon must-watch TV. WATCH:

Aaron Gordon has a chance to become a top 5 defender in the NBA

As a team, the Magic slipped defensively as the year went on. In fact, at one point early in the season the Magic were top five in defensive field goal percentage. However, from Jan. 1 until the end of the year, they were toward the bottom of the league in this category. Gordon, though, made steady progress on this side of the floor. While he needs to be more resistant when guarding players in the post, Gordon had terrific success against perimeter-oriented opponents. WATCH:

Aaron Gordon thrives when the game speeds up

After the All-Star break, Gordon averaged nearly three fast break points per game (1.1 before). From when he was inserted into the starting lineup on Jan. 22 until the end of the season, Gordon was tied with Mario Hezonja for average speed ran per game (4.49 miles per hour). The Magic also flourished as a team scoring off turnovers and in transition when Gordon was on the floor. They accumulated 341 points off turnovers after the All-Star break when Gordon was playing. WATCH:

Aaron Gordon needs to become a more reliable 3-point shooter

Gordon can be an electrifying scorer if he becomes a consistent threat from long distance. He struggled from beyond the arc as the season went on. In fact, he shot 46 percent in December, 31 percent in January and in the 20s in February, March and April. Considering he racks up so many points just off hustle alone, if Gordon becomes a more efficient jump shooter it will be a nightmare for opponents to contain him. WATCH:

Aaron Gordon has tools to spend a lot of time at free throw line

While he needs to improve his overall fundamentals (often can be reckless when trying to escape defenders), Gordon isn’t afraid of contact. Once he becomes a more central piece of the Magic’s offense, Gordon’s speed, strength and athleticism will force opponents to foul him at the rim. He shot 67 percent from the line this past season, which isn’t too shabby considering he shot 42 percent in his one year in college. The Magic are desperate for someone to initiate more contact. They ranked 29th in the league in free throw attempts. WATCH: