Projecting Aaron Gordon

The Orlando Sentinel today begins introducing the newcomers to the Magic squad as September 30 is check-in day. As for AG, Brian Schmitz writes::

What he brings to the Magic: He easily will be the team’s most athletic big, if not the best athlete, period. Gordon will entertain fans with his non-stop motor on both ends. If he’s to earn playing time, it will be on defense as he can guard multiple positions. As he showed at Arizona, he contests shots, has great feet and can defend without fouling a lot – committing 2.3 fouls per 40 minutes. Gordon will get most of his points on offensive rebounds and running the floor until he develops. With his leaping ability at the rim, he reminded some scouts of Blake Griffin coming out of college. The Magic hope that Gordon, along with guards Victor Oladipo and Elfrid Payton Jr., can become a three-pronged defensive force in the future.  

What he needs to improve: Gordon is limited offensively, needing work on his jump shot and overall mechanics -- judging from his 45 percent free-throw percentage at Arizona. He should live in the weight room as a rookie to add bulk to his frame for post play. Then again, Gordon isn't close to maturing and won’t turn 19 until Sept. 16.

Projection: 4.5 points, 5.5 rebounds