‘He plays bigger as the moments get bigger’ — Eric Gordon a key addition for the 76ers who have lofty goals next year

Former IU basketball guard Eric Gordon was someone who was highly desired by a lot of NBA teams during the early days of free agency. Quickly, he settled on a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers as someone who is going to play a very specific role on a team looking to take the next step.

The 76ers have won at least 50 games or won their division in five of the last seven years. But, they’ve faltered in the postseason, failing to reach the Eastern Conference Finals since they made the NBA Finals back in the 2001 playoffs.

With the core of its group in Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey locked in for multiple years, it’s ‘now or never’ for this duo. Because of that the 76ers were one of the most active teams in the early stages of free agency. Not only was Gordon added, but Kelly Oubre was re-signed, Caleb Martin from Miami was added, Andre Drummond was brought in — all on top of adding Paul George.

All of those players will play vastly different roles, but extremely important roles surrounding Embiid and Maxey. And, this will likely be the most complete and versatile roster the 76ers have had in the recent era of Philly basketball.

Gordon will play a key part in that and his resume was one that was too attractive to the 76ers front office to not bring on board.

“Eric is a proven shot-maker whose ability to create space and punish defenses that overextend will help solidify an already dynamic offense,” 76ers GM Daryl Morey said. “He plays bigger as the moments get bigger which will be key for our playoff run.”

Eric Gordon’s best years came alongside Daryl Morey

Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) accepts the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award from owner Tilman Fertitta as general manager Daryl Morey is next to him during the opening of the NBA game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Toyota Center. Photo Credit: Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle

The former IU basketball guard is entering his 17th year in the NBA and has been successful at every stop along the way.

Gordon is coming off of a one-year stint with the Phoenix Suns where he averaged 11.0 points and shot 37.8 percent from three.

And despite staying nearly two decades in the NBA, he’s not a well-traveled veteran. He’s played for just four organizations, staying at least three years with all but one team. Gordon’s best years in the NBA came under Morey, during their time together with the Houston Rockets. Gordon won the Sixth Man of the Year during the 2016-17 season and averaged 15.7 points while shooting 36 percent from three over 379 games with Houston.

“I’ve known Eric for many years – he is devoted to his craft and continuously works on his game, allowing him to have such a long and successful career,” Morey added. “We are lucky to have him in Philly.”