Orlando Magic Power Rankings Roundup: Signs of progress
Kurt Helin, Pro Basketball Talk
29. . (48-13). Previous: . San Antonio Spurs. 1. team
. (25-36). Previous: . Sacramento Kings. 27. team. 84
Orlando Magic. 28. team. 38. . (23-39). Previous:
"They picked up a nice win over red-hot Miami last week, and the starting five in Orlando seems to have found a groove. When they can stay healthy and on the court (a game after putting up 25 on Miami, Nikola Vucevic sat with a sore Achilles). You have to think moving Aaron Gordon back to the four more has a lot to do with the improved play of late."
20. . (19-44). Previous: . Los Angeles Lakers. 29. team
Aaron Gordon’s move to power forward has been a statistical boost for him. Put that in the category of, “Well, duh.”
Since the All-Star Break, Gordon is averaging 15.0 points per game and 7.2 rebounds per game. In transition, he looks much more aggressive and comfortable. He can attack slower-footed power forwards better off the dribble and work closer to the basket.
It is frustrating the Magic did not explore Gordon at the power forward position before. It made far too much sense. Better late than never, I suppose.
The Magic are playing a lot better and have seemingly become a more modern offense thanks to this switch. Gordon has benefited from the space created for him from having better shooters on the floor.
At least Orlando has found a workable lineup strategy.