Orlando Magic Position-by-Position Outlook
Small Forward
Many probably figured the Orlando Magic would be looking for wing help this year and a true small forward in free agency to complete their lineup. Aaron Gordon, the versatile tweener that he is, seemed a better fit at the power forward than on the perimeter considering his struggles shooting.
The Magic acquired Serge Ibaka and Aaron Gordon now plays the small forward instead of power forward. It is something of a seismic shift for him.
Gordon has said he considers himself a small forward. He has more comfort playing on the perimeter rather than the post. And he certainly is not a true power forward. His versatility will still have him playing some 4. But, for the first time in his career, Gordon will spend more time on the perimeter.
It is hard to say whether Gordon can adequately fill this role, of course. His 3-point shooting is improving, but is hardly strong yet. He is unproven as a driver and slasher from the perimeter. Gordon still gets a lot of his value from running in transition and working the offensive glass.
The Magic know Gordon can still improve by leaps and bounds. Look at how he improved before breaking his jaw last summer. He had a fully healthy summer (recent ankle injury notwithstanding) to improve and knowing this would be his role.
Frank Vogel seems excited of the possibility of playing Gordon on the perimeter — especially defensively. And it did not take long for Paul George comparisons to get dusted off considering the coach.
It is a big year for Gordon who is still trying to establish himself in this league and define his role in his career.
Mario Hezonja also has a big year ahead of him and likely plays the minutes behind Gordon at the 3 in general lineups.
Hezonja had an uneven rookie year. He never could gain Scott Skiles’ trust and he seemed to lose some of his confidence as he tried to stay on the floor. He was never fully unleashed as he struggled on defense and to stay on the court. Hezonja needs some space to freelance.
A more positive coaching environment from Frank Vogel should help. But, at the same time, Hezonja needs to deliver too.
Magic fans know he can be a knock-down shooter and many suspect he can run on the ball some too. Playing with the reserves, Hezonja could be the guy that leads the group on many nights and fills a sixth man role. That would be a huge step forward for the young player.
Jeff Green too could see some minutes at small forward as, like Aaron Gordon, he can play both forward positions.
This position group though has questions at the top and the whole season may rest on whether Gordon can truly take a step forward as a player.