We have seen very little of Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac so far… from what we have seen, can the Orlando Magic build something around these two?
Rossman-Reich: I think the jury is still out on whether this is a future championship core. It probably is not. And for a certain segment of fans, that might be enough to give up on both. It is far too early to draw conclusions. But there is something there. I am intrigued by Aaron Gordon’s continued growth on the offensive end. If the Magic can continue developing his shooting — in addition to figuring out what Jonathan Isaac’s offense is — then they should create some spacing. Adding a true rim-protecting center and a point guard who can shoot and there is definitely something. It is an incomplete picture for sure. But it is a start if they continue their growth curves.
Bethel: I want these two to work out. Is it going happen? Well, it is just too early to tell. Rookie seasons, for most anyway, are plagued with mistake-ridden plays and a general sense of floundering around until you figure it out. This only gets worse when you are injured for long durations. So has Jonathan Isaac shown his true colors? Hardly, but the guy needs some time, and even some support. That said, I think both can definitely be integral pieces for the team moving forward, but it remains to be seen who will accompany them.
Racine: I think the Magic can build something around Jonathan Isaac and Aaron Gordon. Isaac is showing good cutting ability and a decent 3-point shot at the small forward position. The two are interchangeable at the forward positions and provide the Magic a valuable defensive duo. Gordon is more skilled right now as a ball handler and shot creator, but Isaac can be a good compliment to him playing off the ball.
Scricca: It can work, but only if there is a legitimate 3-point threat at center or if they are playing the 4 and 5 in a small-ball configuration, ideally with a better ball-handler, shooter and facilitator in the backcourt.
Palmer: I kind of answered it with the last question but it really depends on the development of both guys’ offensive game. If they can both improve their shot to about NBA average from three then they can probably work together. Defensively, it is a pretty good pairing, though I wonder if it would not benefit Orlando more to keep Isaac closer to the paint and Gordon on the perimeter before all the switching starts.