Skip to main content

Magic Stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are 'Game Changers', Says Stephen Curry

The Orlando Magic has surprised a lot of people this season, and a lot of the team's excellent play is due to some great play from its stars.

The Orlando Magic's play has drawn attention from a lot of people this season, including a lot of the team's opponents. But perhaps the most notable of the Magic's believers is Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry.

The nine-time All-Star played against the Magic in his most recent game, and it was a close-fought battle. Curry praised Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner in his postgame conference, saying the Magic has a "good thing going."

Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner

Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner

"They’ve both taken a leap and that’s reflected in their record," Curry said. "Two young guys that are starting to figure it out and they’re tough. It's not really going to be a one-on-one situation, you've gotta have all five guys ready to defend. They’re becoming game changers on that front."

Banchero and Wagner finished the game against the Warriors with 27 and 25 points, respectively. They were also able to stuff the stat sheets, as Banchero finished with 12 rebounds and six assists, and Wagner finished with six rebounds and two steals.

Getting praise like this from one of the greatest players the league has ever seen is sure to raise the confidence levels of these young players. Banchero talked more about what it means to get recognition from his peers in his postgame interview.

"It means a lot... gaining respect from your peers," Banchero said. "It’s just a testament to the work that we do... We’re the future, we’re coming up, so getting their stamp is always great."

The Magic will be back in action tomorrow night against the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Tipoff is set for 9 p.m. ET inside Ball Arena.