By Josh CohenOct. 14, 2015
Can Gordon Become One of NBA’s Best Transition Players?
Gordon has unreal athleticism. He’s a physical specimen and his long strides and wingspan make him a complex cover. Gordon also is excellent at starting a fast break after forcing a turnover or when he chases down a loose ball. He is extremely fast and his imposing strength makes defenders back up. In the play featured below, it only takes Gordon about eight strides to race from the foul line extended on the defensive end to the other side for a furious flush. WATCH:
Is Gordon on a Kawhi Leonard/Draymond Green/Jimmy Butler type defensive level?
Like those players mentioned in the question, Gordon is very good at eluding and batting over screens to avoid a defensive switch. He makes up ground quickly and his long arms make it challenging to shoot over him. In the play featured below, Gordon fights over a Chris Andersen pick (which allows Dewayne Dedmon to stay back and continue protecting the paint) and blocks Gerald Green’s shot. WATCH:
Can Gordon Become Efficient Scoring Off the Dribble?
The answer to this question will likely determine whether Gordon can evolve into a major scoring threat or not. Gordon will accumulate much of his scoring in transition (especially off turnovers). However, if he develops a consistent step-back and pull-up mid-range jumper, Gordon could become a dynamic scorer. In the play featured below, Gordon uses a nice step-back crossover dribble to escape his defender and bury the jumper. WATCH:
Will Gordon Become One of NBA’s Most Dazzling Players?
When a player is 6’10 and has off the charts athleticism, it opens the door for mesmerizing plays. Gordon will likely lead the team in alley-oop finishes this season and he certainly will accumulate a fair share of dunks. His hang time is so scary that he can do things that we have seen from very few players in NBA history (Dr. J, Michael Jordan, Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady come to mind). WATCH:
Can Gordon Become a Respectable 3-Point Shooter?
Gordon shot 50 percent (6-of-12) from 3-point range at Summer League this past July. He continues to work with shooting guru Dave Love to improve his mechanics and build confidence. Orlando can use another guy to help space the floor. Improving his jump shot percentage (shot just 11 percent on shot attempts between 10 and 14 feet from basket and just 27 percent on 3-point takes last season) will prevent defenders from sagging. While he only shot 1-of-6 on jump shots in Tuesday’s game against the Heat, it’s best to examine his form. WATCH: