Aaron Gordon’s versatile play has played a major role in the Denver Nuggets’ success this season. The forward has been instrumental for the side and believes that he will take part in the Dunk Contest if he does indeed get an All-Star call-up.
His teammates firmly believe that Gordon, who was acquired from the Orlando Magic in 2021 and was the No. 4 pick from the 2014 Draft, deserved to be on that All-Star list for his two-way play that has been pivotal for Denver.
Gordon has healthy numbers to show. At the time of writing, he is averaging 16.5 points and 6.8 rebounds, leading Sports Illustrated’s Rohan Nadkarni to believe that he is making a case to suit up for the much-awaited weekend extravaganza.
“Gordon has built an All-Star case this season, as he’s been a two-way demon for a red-hot Denver team. He’s third on the team in scoring despite taking the fifth-most shots. And he’s their most rugged perimeter defender, taking on the opponent’s best scorer on a near-nightly basis.”
And on his part, the 27-year-old believes he has what it to make the All-Star roster and is keen on showcasing his dunking skills again. Gordon was part of the contest in 2016 and 2020 — both of which were termed as controversial losses.
“If I’m in the All-Star Game, I’ll do the dunk contest.”
In 2020, Gordon faced some stiff competition from Derrick Rose Jr., but despite his eye-popping pyrotechnics and landing five 50 scores, and his final dunk over Celtics’ Tacko Fall, he earned a 47, much to his dismay. In 2016, he was edged out by Zach LaVine, but in the lead-up to this season’s contest, the San Jose man is keen to showcase his skills.
Nuggets Coach Michael Malone And Teammate Bones Hyland Laud Aaron Gordon
Gordon’s efforts on the floor haven’t gone unnoticed. His seamless fit alongside MVP candidate Nikola Jokic has made the Nuggets’ offense a deadly affair. His ability to bypass screens while also setting it up for Jokic shows his acute awareness of the game.
This had head coach Michael Malone lavishing rich praise on his forward and also calling him the ultimate team player.
“What I’m probably most proud of him for is he hasn’t fought it,” Malone said about Gordon in December. “Last season we didn’t have Michael [Porter Jr.] and Jamal [Murray], and we have some talented offensive players back, and Aaron hasn’t fought the touches, the play calls. If I’m not calling his number he’s not pouting; he’s not moaning, ‘I’m not getting enough play calls.’ He’s finding ways to impact the game, rebounding, running, getting big at the rim, posting up; that’s why all those numbers are so high.”
This was seconded by Bones Hyland, who felt Gordon deserved every bit of the attention he’s receiving of late:
“This is definitely one of the best seasons I’ve seen from AG by far. He does the junkyard work for us, and I feel like he doesn’t get a lot of praise. So definitely AG an All-Star for sure.”
Gordon has proved plenty for Denver this season as they remain firm favorites as title contenders. They are placed first in the West and will look to go the distance.
For the forward, the hope is that he makes the All-Star cut and gets a chance to also dunk his way to becoming a champion. Whether he will get an opportunity remains to be seen.
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