From LeBron to Jokić to Banchero: Magic's KCP Sees Excellence

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who won NBA titles with the Lakers and Nuggets, sees something special in Paolo Banchero, the Orlando Magic's 21-year-old All-Star.

Apr 20, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (5) reacts to a three point shot during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers in game one of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports / Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports

ORLANDO – Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has played on NBA Championship teams with LeBron James and Nikola Jokić. Now the 11-year veteran is looking forward to sharing the court with Orlando Magic All-Star Paolo Banchero.

KCP, the Magic's big acquisition in free agency this offseason, recently was asked what stood out from watching his 21-year-old teammate Banchero?

"His knowledge of the game,” Caldwell-Pope said.”Him being patient in certain situations, making plays for his teammates to get his teammates involved. Being so much of a little bit of a leader that l've seen from him. Just being him. He's a great kid, and I'm looking forward to being alongside him."

in 2023-24, Banchero followed up a rookie-of-the-year season with an All-Star Game selection. And then he took another leap in his first playoff experience.

In a seven-game slugfest with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Banchero averaged roughly 27 points, nine rebounds, and four assists while shooting 40 percent from three.

With KCP. the Magic get a complementary player with postseason experience who they expect will optimize the development of Banchero and the team's other young stars.

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