Davis to Anchor Post, Gordon to Start at Power Forward

[Sun Scorched]

Davis to Anchor Post, Gordon to Start at Power Forward



In a move not anticipated until the playoffs, the New Orleans Pelicans plan on starting Anthony Davis at Center for the first time in his career. Filling the vacated Power Forward spot, Aaron Gordon looks to build upon a very impressive pre-season record.

The early-season injury to fan-favorite forward Clint Capela (36 days, broken foot) was compounded by last game’s injury to starting center Tyson Chandler (55 days, broken wrist).

“I’m excited for the opportunity – obviously we’ve run a small ball lineup in practice before, but the idea of getting some real, in-game experience running a small lineup is fun.” Davis smiled. “Aaron and I always have a bet to see who can grab more takeaways in practice; it will be interesting to see how that plays out on the court.”

Gordon, for his part, certainly must be excited about starting next to the former NBA finals MVP. The main piece received in the Damian Lillard trade, Gordon projects to be an active addition to the starting lineup. Comparing the young Gordon to established veteran Tyson Chandler may seem disingenuous, but it does promote some interesting thoughts.

Tyson Chandler
Advanced Stats
PPSA: 1.195 / APC*: 25.43
Per36 Stats
PTS: 11.9 / REB: 8.6 / BLK: 1.2 / STL: 0.8


Aaron Gordon
Advanced Stats
PPSA: 1.369 / APC*: 36.49
Per36 Stats
PTS: 15.2 / REB: 9.8 / BLK: 2.1 / STL: 1.2

*APC = Pelican's proprietary formula, "Actual Points Created"

“Obviously, Aaron was a key acquisition for us. We wanted him to get familiar with our system before throwing him into the fray. Although Tyson’s injury has sped that up a bit, Aaron is every bit ready and, I might add, very hungry to tear up that hardwood.” GM Jace Hinderland nodded. “As a fan, I’m pretty excited as well.”

Interestingly, the Pelicans have been active on the trade front – apparently having locked up a verbal commitment to acquire more wing depth, a key focus for the squad. Still, word out of the front office has the Pelicans looking to secure even more talent as they approach a very competitive post-season run.

[rh0xxy]

Interesting move though i think you don't have much choice anyway with those injuries to your bigs. I am a fan of both and i expect them to do just fine in whatever front court position they be in.

[andrei]

time to put Davis in Single Post. I need to see some 50/30 games

[Rizzo]

There's no doubt that Davis is going to flourish at center even if you don't run the single post. The injuries to the bigs pretty much forced your hand. Will be fun to see how Gordon handles the increase in minutes.

[blackice]

I'd pour minutes (30 MPG+) into Gordon. He's been under utilized and deserves a shot. I really like this frontcourt, the injuries could turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

[Mattybriand]

We sure do miss AG in Indy!!

[bt]

I'm a Gordon fan. No idea why he hasn't started for a team yet.

[OneNole]

Man you sure do get a ton of injuries

[Marcos_Beck]

I'd have done that since day 1. Davis is suited to playing C and Gordon looks way better than Chandler.

[Sun Scorched]

I'd have done that since day 1. Davis is suited to playing C and Gordon looks way better than Chandler.

I was trying to hide Gordon on my bench for as long as possible..... he is an RFA after all.

[bt]

Cheeky

[Marcos_Beck]

Hehehe
Sneaky move