NBA: 10 players facing make or break seasons in 2017-18

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – FEBRUARY 18: Aaron Gordon #00 of the Orlando Magic competes in the 2017 Verizon Slam Dunk Contest at Smoothie King Center on February 18, 2017 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

Aaron Gordon, PF, Orlando Magic

Sometimes a young player’s development is hurt by something that is out of his control. Last year coach Frank Vogel moving Aaron Gordon to small forward is an example of that. Luckily at the deadline the Magic moved Serge Ibaka and Gordon returned to his natural position of power forward. At small forward, Gordon played 55 games, compared to only 25 at power forward. At power forward he averaged 16.2 points per game. Compared to only 10.8 points per game at small forward.

Now, entering his fourth season at his natural position, Gordon needs to break out for the Magic. Right now he is just known as a great dunker. You don’t draft just a dunker at 4th overall. Gordon needs to round out the rest of his game.

Gordon has incredible versatility. His ability to hang with guards on defensive switches is impressive. While his shot blocking and steal numbers are low, he plays good team defense. With a decent jump shot added to his physical gifts, Gordon is capable of averaging 17 points and eight rebounds per game. Then, the Magic will have a franchise cornerstone, if not the Magic may move on. Of all the players on this list, I believe in Gordon the most.

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