Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Magic PF Paolo Banchero Destined for Superstardom?
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Orlando Magic rookie Paolo Banchero has been a precocious talent that has shown the world that he possesses star potential. His well-rounded play has the NBA media seeing bright things in his future.
Bleacher Report compiled a list of current players that they see developing into stars somewhere down the line, and Banchero is part of the list.
"If anything, Banchero's gifts are more conspicuous," Bleacher Report writes. "There aren't many 6'10" forwards whose principal skill is individual shot creation. And if Banchero's ability to make those shots catches up to his ability to generate them, he's basically guaranteed to become an All-Star and leading scorer in a very dangerous offense. The level of responsibility the Orlando Magic have given Banchero in his age-20 season is a strong indication they believe that's exactly where he's headed."
Though inefficient shooting 42.6 percent from the field and 29.2 percent from the three-point line, Banchero has been a dynamic scorer for the Magic out of the gates. He's had 38 games with at least 20 points. How he gets his share of the offense is what impresses most.
Banchero has the ability to score off the bounce or the catch. He thrives in the fast break and while needing development, is capable of knocking down the long ball, making 1.2 threes per night.
His imposing frame, athleticism and natural feel for the game put him a step ahead of every one else in his draft class. On top of that, he is already one of the elite rebounders at the forward position not only among rookies, but in the entire NBA, averaging 6.8 boards to go along with a healthy 3.7 assists on the year.
The sky is the limit for Banchero, and coach Jamahl Mosley aims to further develop one of the jewels of the Magic franchise.
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