Magic PF Paolo Banchero 'Should Be An All-Star', Says Franz Wagner

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner shared his thoughts on Paolo Banchero's season so far.

When Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner fills out his All-Star ballot, there's one name that is sure to make his list. 

After a 117-110 road win over the Indiana Pacers, Wagner spoke about the performance and skill of his teammate, Paolo Banchero, who helped lead the Magic to victory. 

"I think Paolo should be an All-Star cause he's probably the main reason why we are where we are in the standings," Wagner said. "Creating mismatches and problems for the other team all game. And not just making plays for himself, I think he did a great job this year of making everybody around him better. Growing into a leader as well."

Banchero had a game-high 34 points on 11 of 20 shooting and added in seven rebounds and four assists in the win over the Pacers. It snapped a four game losing streak, the longest stretch without a win that Orlando has suffered this year. 

Paolo Banchero is averaging 21.2 points in his second NBA season for the Orlando Magic.  / Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Magic have been one of the surprises of the NBA, starting off the season 17-11 which is good for fourth place in the Eastern Conference, even after the losing streak. 

A large part of that success has been due to Banchero's play in his second NBA season. He is averaging 21.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.0 steals through 28 games. Currently, he leads the team in points per game, rebounds per game and assists per game.

His efficiency has also improved greatly from last season. He has gone from shooting 42.7 percent from the field and 29.8 percent from three to shooting 47.0 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from three.

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The All-Star starters will be revealed on Jan. 25 and the reserves will be revealed on Feb. 1.