How Magic Rookies Benefit Paolo Banchero's Game
Orlando performed some magic when it selected Duke's Paolo Banchero with the No. 1 overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft. The 6-10 power forward returned the favor immediately, as he became the first rookie since LeBron James to have 25 points, five rebounds, and five assists in their NBA debut.
Shortly after, Banchero became the third player in NBA history to score more than 20 points in 15 of his first 20 games as a rookie.
Banchero finished the season averaging 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists. The Orlando Magic's record was still subpar (34-48), but he helped the team improve its mark by 12 games. The league recognized all his accolades and donned him the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.
Now entering his second season, Banchero is expected to lead the Magic to more wins. The 20-year-old will take on a responsibility very few other players in the league have to adopt due to his age.
The Magic has the sixth-youngest team in the NBA, so it may be easier for Banchero to adapt to the role. However, he must find a way to incorporate the Magic's high-value rookies into their play-style.
The Magic made a splash in the 2023 NBA Draft by selecting point guard Anthony Black and small forward Jett Howard within the first 11 picks.
Coming out of Arkansas, Black, 19, stands at a staggering 6-7 height for a point guard and takes advantage of it by being able to defensively take on positions up to small forward. The SEC All-Freshman team member plays with a pass-first mind and could find Banchero quickly and efficiently.
Coming out of Michigan, Howard, 19, is a 6-8 small forward whose main priority is to create shots for himself. The All-Big Ten team member quickly finds ways to get open with and without the ball and can score from all three levels. Banchero is among the better half of facilitators for his size and position and can consistently find Howard in catch-and-shoot opportunities.
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