A big part of the issue with Gordon was how he was used in Orlando's scheme. Orlando was hell bent on trying to make him a 3 and play like Paul George before finally acknowledging after the Ibaka trade he's more of a 4 which everybody outside of Orlando knew. And right now he just isnt a Paul George type in the slightest....at least not yet.

I remember looking in mid Feb before the Ibaka trade and seeing Gordon had 6 plays the ENTIRE season as a roll man in the pick and roll. That's pathetic, that's a total joke of not being able to utilize his talents properly. Him finishing at the rim and being used as a roll man is really his strength and how he should be featured, instead it was the exact opposite.

Gordon is far more athletic and has far more defensive ability. The ceiling is just higher with Gordon. Saric's stock is high right now but I wouldnt be particularly surprised if 2 years from now if we are looking at Saric then and saying "He's more of a 6th man on a decent team".

Also Saric isnt the better rebounder at all. That's just looking at volume stats: Gordon's rebounding rate(ie % of rebound opportunities he secures) is way higher than Saric's 61% vs 48%. I also think Gordon is the better passer, he's always had good vision particularly for the 4 spot(which is what he should be). The assist totals are just a matter of opportunity and Saric has more chances to have the ball in his hands than Gordon.