Report: Magic hope to have Gordon back in 7-10 days

The Orlando Magic are hoping to have sophomore Aaron Gordon back in uniform in seven-to-10 days, according to John Denton of OrlandoMagic.com.

Gordon fractured his jaw "horsing around" with older brother Drew in July, and the nature of the injury has allowed Gordon to stay in "great shape," Denton reports.

It was reported in mid-September that Gordon had been fully cleared following surgery, but the report was later amended to suggest he'd be ready for full 5-on-5 play by mid-October. The Magic will play their second preseason game on Wednesday, and it's possible Gordon could still get into four exhibitions if he makes it back on the early end of his latest timeline.

The 20-year-old is entering an important second season, one in which he should develop a more clear role within the Magic's young core. That includes the opportunity to show new head coach Scott Skiles he belongs in the starting lineup, as the team's power forward position is presumed to be open for competition in camp.

The No. 4 pick in 2014 impressed as a rookie but was limited to just 47 games, and while the talent is palpable, it's not yet obvious what type of player he's going to be. Gordon does several things well that should make him a malleable building piece.

An effective and versatile defender, the 6-foot-9 Gordon shot 27.9 percent from outside of 16 feet in a small sample, an encouraging sign that his range may eventually extend to the 3-point line. He also averaged 21.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in three Orlando Summer League games, showing enormous strides from his rookie campaign.