Aaron Gordon's 2017 Season: Breaking Down The Stats

Hey guys, let's dive deep into what made the 2017 season a pivotal year for Aaron Gordon. It was a time when he really started to show the league what he was capable of, moving beyond the "high-flying dunker" label and proving himself as a legitimate, versatile forward. We're talking about a season where his game saw some serious development, and understanding these stats is key to appreciating his growth and potential. So, buckle up, because we're about to break down the numbers that defined Aaron Gordon's 2017 campaign, looking at his scoring, his defense, his playmaking, and how all of it fit together. It wasn't just about the flashy dunks anymore; it was about consistency, impact, and laying the foundation for the player he is today.

Early Season Performance and Role Adjustments

The 2017 season for Aaron Gordon began with a lot of anticipation, but also with some uncertainty about his exact role on the Orlando Magic. Initially, Gordon was often deployed as a small forward, a position that didn't always play to his strengths as a powerful, athletic big man. However, as the season progressed, and especially after head coach Frank Vogel began to experiment more, Gordon found himself increasingly playing power forward, often alongside Nikola Vucevic. This shift was crucial. Playing the power forward spot allowed him to utilize his athleticism more effectively, play closer to the basket, and contribute more significantly on the boards. His early season stats reflected this adjustment period. While his scoring was decent, it wasn't always efficient, and he was still finding his rhythm. However, the underlying potential was always there, evident in his explosive bursts and flashes of brilliance. Guys, it's important to remember that player development isn't linear. There are ups and downs, and the 2017 season was definitely a year where Gordon was navigating these changes, learning to adapt to different matchups and defensive schemes. The team's overall performance wasn't stellar, which often puts a lot of pressure on individual players to step up, and Gordon was certainly one of those guys expected to carry a heavier load. His ability to absorb these role changes and still produce, even if inconsistently at times, spoke volumes about his maturity and his commitment to improving his game. It was in these early stages of the 2017 season that we saw the first real signs of Gordon evolving from a raw athlete into a more complete basketball player.

Statistical Breakthroughs and Key Metrics

When we talk about Aaron Gordon's 2017 season, we have to highlight his statistical breakthroughs. This was the year his scoring average saw a significant jump, and more importantly, his efficiency started to improve. He averaged around 12.7 points per game in the 2016-2017 season, a noticeable increase from the previous year. But it wasn't just about the raw points; it was how he was getting them. He was starting to knock down the three-pointer with more consistency, shooting around 31.9% from deep. While that might not seem spectacular by today's standards, it was a massive step forward for Gordon, who was previously known more for his inside game. This expansion of his offensive arsenal opened up the floor for his teammates and made him a much more dangerous threat. Furthermore, his rebounding numbers remained solid, averaging about 5.1 rebounds per game. This showed his continued commitment to doing the dirty work and contributing on both ends of the court. His field goal percentage also saw a modest improvement, indicating that he was making smarter shot selections and becoming more comfortable finishing around the rim. What's really interesting, guys, is to look at his advanced metrics from this year. While PER (Player Efficiency Rating) and other advanced stats might not have been elite, they showed a marked improvement, reflecting his increased impact on the game. He was becoming more involved in the offense, creating more opportunities for himself, and demonstrating a better understanding of spacing and defensive rotations. The 2017 season was undeniably a turning point where Aaron Gordon started to put up numbers that reflected his potential and his growing importance to the Magic. It was the year he showed the league he wasn't just a dunk contest participant; he was a developing NBA player with a diverse skill set.

Impact on the Orlando Magic and Future Outlook

Aaron Gordon's performance in the 2017 season had a tangible impact on the Orlando Magic, even if the team's overall record didn't reflect a major leap forward. As a key player, Gordon's development was seen as a bright spot amidst the team's struggles. His increased scoring and improved shooting percentage provided much-needed offensive firepower. When Gordon was on the court and playing well, the Magic were simply a more competitive team. His ability to stretch the floor with his improved three-point shooting also opened up driving lanes for himself and his teammates, creating a more dynamic offense. Defensively, while not always his strongest suit, Gordon's athleticism and length allowed him to be a disruptive force. He could switch onto different positions and contest shots, contributing to the team's defensive effort. The future outlook for Gordon after the 2017 season was incredibly promising. He had demonstrated significant growth, particularly in his offensive game, and had proven his versatility by effectively playing both small forward and power forward. This versatility made him a valuable asset for any NBA team. The organization clearly saw his potential and invested in him, and his performance in 2017 validated that belief. Fans and analysts alike recognized that Gordon was on an upward trajectory. The question wasn't if he would become a star, but when. His consistent effort, willingness to learn, and continuous improvement were all positive indicators. The 2017 season served as a crucial stepping stone, solidifying his place as a core player for the Magic and setting the stage for him to take on even greater responsibility in the seasons to come. It was clear that the Magic were building around him, hoping he would lead them to future success. Guys, looking back, this season was fundamental in shaping the player we see today, a player who has become a reliable scorer, defender, and leader.

Key Games and Memorable Moments

While we're talking about Aaron Gordon's 2017 season, it's impossible not to touch upon some of the key games and memorable moments that truly showcased his talent and grit. One of the most defining aspects of his early career, which certainly extended into 2017, was his participation in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Although he didn't win in 2017, his performances in previous years had already cemented his status as one of the most athletic dunkers in the league. These dunk contest appearances, while not part of regular season stats, built immense hype and recognition around Gordon, showcasing his unbelievable leaping ability and creativity. In terms of actual games, there were several instances during the 2017 season where Gordon put up impressive stat lines. He had multiple games where he scored 20+ points, often coupled with a good number of rebounds and assists. These were the games where he looked truly dominant, able to impose his will on both ends of the floor. For example, a notable performance might have seen him hitting crucial threes, driving aggressively to the basket, and locking down opposing forwards. These types of games were vital for the Magic, as they often translated into wins or at least highly competitive contests. Remember, guys, it's not just about the final score, but about the impact a player has. Gordon's ability to deliver in clutch moments, whether it was a key defensive stop or a timely bucket, was becoming more apparent. These individual performances weren't just footnotes; they were indicators of his growing confidence and his ability to perform under pressure. The 2017 season was filled with these flashes of brilliance that had fans excited about what was next for Aaron Gordon. He was developing that reputation as a player who could deliver spectacular plays and impactful performances.

Evolution of his Three-Point Shot

One of the most significant developments for Aaron Gordon during the 2017 season was the evolution of his three-point shot. For years, Gordon was primarily known as a dominant force inside the paint, an explosive leaper who finished strong at the rim. His jump shot, particularly from beyond the arc, was considered a weakness. However, in 2017, we saw a noticeable improvement. He attempted more threes per game and, crucially, his percentage started to climb. He finished the 2016-2017 season shooting 31.9% from three-point range. While this might seem modest, it represented a substantial leap from his previous seasons and showed a commitment to expanding his offensive game. This wasn't just a fluke; it was the result of dedicated practice and a strategic decision to become a more well-rounded player. The ability to knock down the three-pointer is essential in today's NBA, and Gordon understood that. It opened up his game in numerous ways. Defenses could no longer sag off him completely, forcing them to guard him further out on the perimeter. This spacing created more driving opportunities for Gordon himself and opened up passing lanes for his teammates. It made him a much more unpredictable offensive player. Guys, think about it: when a player can score effectively from both inside and outside, they become exponentially harder to defend. Gordon's work on his three-point shot in and around the 2017 season was a testament to his dedication and his desire to improve. It wasn't just about adding a new weapon; it was about becoming a more complete and valuable player for the Orlando Magic. This development laid the groundwork for his continued shooting improvements in subsequent years, making him the dynamic forward we see today.

Defensive Contributions and Versatility

While Aaron Gordon's offensive game often takes the spotlight, his defensive contributions and versatility during the 2017 season were also incredibly important. Gordon possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and length for a forward, which allows him to be a disruptive force on defense. In 2017, we saw him increasingly tasked with guarding multiple positions. He could effectively check opposing small forwards and power forwards, and at times, even switch onto quicker guards due to his lateral quickness. His ability to contest shots, whether he was closing out on a shooter or defending in the post, was a key asset for the Magic. He averaged 1.0 block and 0.8 steals per game in the 2016-2017 season, solid numbers that reflect his activity and impact on the defensive end. Beyond the raw stats, Gordon's defensive presence often dictated the energy of the team. His willingness to dive for loose balls, take charges, and battle for rebounds showcased his commitment to defense. The 2017 season marked a period where Gordon was starting to embrace his defensive capabilities more fully. He was learning to anticipate plays, read offenses, and use his physical tools to his advantage. This versatility on defense meant that the Magic could implement different defensive schemes with him on the floor. He could anchor the paint or step out to pressure perimeter players. For guys who love to watch the intricacies of the game, Gordon's defensive development in 2017 was a fascinating storyline. It showed his growth as a two-way player, someone who could impact the game significantly without necessarily scoring. This all-around contribution was crucial for a Magic team that was trying to find its identity and build a winning culture. His defensive prowess, combined with his offensive improvements, made him an indispensable part of the team's plans moving forward.

Conclusion: A Foundation for Future Success

In conclusion, the 2017 season was a watershed moment for Aaron Gordon. It was the year he truly began to establish himself as a legitimate NBA player, showcasing significant growth across multiple facets of his game. We saw him expand his offensive repertoire, most notably with the development of his three-point shot, making him a much more dynamic and difficult player to guard. His scoring numbers increased, and his efficiency began to trend upwards, demonstrating a more mature approach to the game. Beyond the scoring, his versatility on both ends of the court became increasingly apparent. He proved capable of defending multiple positions, contributing significantly on defense with blocks, steals, and overall disruptive play. The 2017 season wasn't just about individual statistics; it was about laying a crucial foundation for future success. Gordon demonstrated the willingness to adapt, to work on his weaknesses, and to embrace a larger role within the team. The Orlando Magic clearly recognized this potential, and his performance in 2017 justified their investment and belief in him. For guys who followed his career closely, this season was a clear indication that Gordon was on an upward trajectory, destined for bigger things. It was the stepping stone that propelled him into becoming a more consistent scorer, a reliable defender, and a vocal leader for the Magic. The 2017 season stands as a testament to his dedication, hard work, and the bright future that lay ahead for Aaron Gordon in the NBA. He proved that he was more than just a dunker; he was a developing star.