Magic's Gordon: 'I'm looking to be the best in the NBA at some point'

We all know Aaron Gordon for his breathtaking display in the 2016 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, but when it comes to his on-court repertoire as a starting big for the Orlando Magic, the basketball world remains fairly ignorant to what he's capable of.

The 22-year-old believes in his own hype, at least, and is ready to prove to everyone that he's more than just an aerial artist.

"My game is going to continue to get better and there’s still no ceiling for me," said Gordon to NBA.com's John Denton. "I’m looking to be the best in the NBA at some point in my career, so I’m going to continue to improve and continue to help my team get wins.’’

Experimenting with Gordon at small forward last season didn't play to his strengths, as it was only when he slid over to his more natural four spot that his game started to show improvement. Having him defend wings by exploiting his strength and athleticism made a ton of sense, but his weak ball-handling, especially in the pick and roll, and lack of a 3-point shot sunk him on the offensive end.

Gordon ended the 2016-17 campaign averaging 12.7 points on 45.4 percent shooting, along with 5.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 0.8 steals in 28.7 minutes per game. Those numbers jumped to 16.4 points and 6.2 boards on 50.2 percent shooting after Orlando shipped Serge Ibaka to the Toronto Raptors.

It remains to be seen whether the Magic will come to terms on a contract extension with Gordon ahead of Monday's deadline. If not, he'll become a restricted free agent in July.

"That’s never why I played the game and not why I play the game (now)," Gordon said. "I trust (Magic President of Basketball Operations) Jeff Weltman and (GM) John Hammond to make the right decision and I’m going to continue to play my game, help my team and improve as a player. They see how hard I work, they see how far my game has come and I’m only 22 (years old)."