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The Orlando Magic could get a welcome dose of energy and athleticism as soon as Friday night as Aaron Gordon nears his return from a broken left foot. The team announced Friday morning that it has upgraded Gordon to "probable" for that night's game against the Memphis Grizzlies. He has missed the Magic's past 31 games.
The Magic made Gordon the fourth overall pick of the 2014 NBA Draft. He appeared well on his way to putting together a solid rookie campaign until he sustained that foot injury. In 11 appearances, Gordon averaged 5.8 points and three rebounds on 58.1 percent shooting in 15 minutes, providing energy, defense, and versatility off the bench. In his sixth game, he offered a glimpse at his dynamic potential, scoring 17 points, snaring six rebounds, and swatting two shots in just 22 minutes as Orlando knocked off the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In his lone season at Arizona, Gordon distinguished himself with his defense. Overall, he averaged 12.4 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and 1.9 combined steals and blocks at the collegiate level.