By Josh Cohen

Nov. 30, 2016

Aaron Gordon continues to play outstanding defense. He’s very alert, aggressive and engaged on the defensive side of the floor. The numbers partially tell the story. Gordon ranks No. 2 in the NBA in individual defensive field goal percentage (minimum 18 games played). Opponents are shooting 36.4 percent from the floor when AG is the closest defender. The eye test tells the rest.

Gordon was sensational against Kawhi Leonard during Tuesday’s win. In the play featured below, watch how Gordon avoids two San Antonio screens (one from Tony Parker and other from LaMarcus Aldridge) and then proceeds to play swarming defense on Leonard.

Bismack Biyombo has altered so many shots at the rim this season and he has lightning quick lateral movement to keep up with speedsters driving to the hoop. There are very few big men that can switch defensively on guards. Biyombo and Serge Ibaka are two that can do it with success. WATCH:

Elfrid Payton has very active hands and he’s one of the best swiping at the ball. He’s averaging 2.9 deflections per game (best on Magic). Payton was ultra-aggressive against the Spurs. His instincts and sharpness helped force San Antonio into 19 turnovers (most turnovers by Spurs since March 5 of last season). WATCH:

C.J. Watson is a sneaky good defender. He has excellent anticipation and he never seems afraid to throw his body into the action. He had one of the more significant defensive plays in Tuesday’s victory. Watson took a charge on Parker as the Spurs surged ahead in transition. This heads-up play seemed to inspire the Magic as they went on a little run subsequently. WATCH:

The Magic’s help defense was superb against the Spurs. Whenever someone drove past the first line of defense, it seemed there was almost always a second line ready to help out and clean up. The Magic have made a concerted effort all season to run opponents off the 3-point line because they know they have an interior capable of protecting the rim. WATCH: