Assessing a trio of Nor Cal talents playing in Orlando

Carl Berman/Netscouts Basketball on the Orlando summer league play of a trio of northern California talents:

Aaron Gordon, Orlando Magic (Pick 4): Gordon struggled during the summer league, averaging 7.8 points and 5.0 rebounds per game while shooting 35 percent from the field. He was 0-of-8 from three-point range and 2-of-20 from outside of the paint. Gordon will need to improve his offense, but his defensive abilities will earn him minutes as a rookie. He’s a freak athlete who can defend multiple positions. At 6-foot-9, Gordon should see minutes at both forward spots.

Xavier Thames, Brooklyn Nets (Pick 59): Thames struggled during the summer league. He was 7-of-26 from the field (27%) as he averaged 3.6 points and 2.4 assists per game. He showed the ability to score at San Diego State, so it’s certainly too soon to write him off.

Tyler Johnson, Miami Heat: After not playing in Miami’s opening game, Johnson had a breakout summer league. Johnson showed freakish athleticism and was fearless when attacking the rim. He had some highlight dunks to showcase his leaping ability. Johnson was also able to knock down open shots, averaging 12.8 points per game on 17-of-28 (61%) shooting. He will face questions about his size for the shooting guard position at 6-foot-4, but he’ll have plenty of opportunities to play overseas if he doesn’t earn an NBA roster spot. There’s no doubt that he was one of the most productive players in Orlando.