Why Eric Gordon deserves more recognition

By Anna Catherine Alderman

https://www.sbnation.com/2018/1/20/16911320/eric-gordon-has-got-this-for-rockets

This feature story from SB Nation’s Paul Flannery focuses on one of the Rockets’ most versatile players, Eric Gordon. The article includes two images and a short clip of Gordon’s highlights from the Rockets 116–98 win over the Timberwolves.

In the January 18 win over the Timberwolves, Gordon had 30 points off the bench making him the leading scorer for the game. His level of play has increased this season with an average of 20 points per game versus his 16.2 average last season.

Flannery quotes coach Mike D’Antoni as saying Gordon is “a super, super player.” Despite D’Antoni’s phenomenal review, Gordon does not receive much attention.

This feature discusses how Gordon has become a more adaptable player for the Rockets. As various players fell out of the lineup due to injury, Gordon stepped in and proved to be a big addition for the Rockets. He has learned to adjust his game depending on which teammates he plays with each night.

I wish Flannery had included Gordon’s age because the way the story is written leads the reader to believe that Gordon is a relatively old player. This is not the case. He is only 29 years old, a year older than James Harden but three years younger than Chris Paul. On the other hand, he has played in the NBA for 10 years. Over the years, he has gained a lot of experience, and his teammates respect that. Flannery quotes Gordon as saying “that’s why no one really worries about me.” This translates on the court. In fact, the Rockets are almost 12 points better than their opponents per 100 possessions when he is on the court. Also, he falls behind only Harden and Paul in terms of highest average of assists.

Since this article was written, the Rockets have moved to first in the Western Conference. Gordon is currently averaging 18.6 points per game which is his third best career average.