The Magic had the first pick in the 2022 NBA draft and selected Duke standout, Paolo Banchero. Was this expected? What should we expect from him? What does he need to improve on?
Written by: Riya Kalra
30 June, 2022
Duke star freshman, a solid 250 pounds standing at 6’10, what can this guy bring to Orlando? The power forward seemed to be the underdog of the top 3 picks in the 2022 NBA draft. Banchero was expected to be chosen in the top 3 picks, but most thought that Jabari Smith (Houston) or Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma) would receive the honor of being pick 1. But Orlando learned something from the 2017 NBA draft, where Jayson Tatum was chosen as a third pick (after Markelle Fultz to the 76ers and Lonzo Ball to the Lakers) and is now the most successful player out of the three. Tatum is averaging 25.6 PPG, 6.2 APG, and 6.7 RBG, while Fultz is averaging 10.8 PPG, 5.5 APG, and 2.7 RBG, and Ball has an average of 13.0 PPG, 5.1 APG, and 5.3 RPG. These stats show that though one may be the top pick, they can still be the biggest bust in 76ers history (Fultz). The Magic have given Banchero a golden opportunity to prove himself, prove that he was meant to be chosen first. I believe Banchero will be able to seize this opportunity and may qualify for Rookie of the Year.
What Can Banchero Bring to the Table in Orlando?
Banchero is already an excellent player, averaging 17.2 PPG, 3.2 APG, and 7.8 RPG. Banchero has the ability to drive to the basket, hit accurate mid-range jump shots, and he has no problem passing the ball to his teammates so they can hit an open shot. Banchero definitely has a chance to become a star for the Magic, hopefully, he can make them better than last season.
What can Banchero Improve on?
While Banchero is great at offense, he has an average of 33.8% in regards to 3 point shooting. While that percentage is average, if Banchero improves his 3 pointers by next season, he has a greater chance of winning Rookie of the Year. Banchero is able to hit 3 pointers under pressure, as he has the ability to create space between him and his defender, allowing him to hit a 3. However, the NBA will be more intense, and Banchero must be prepared to handle the intense pressure of Marcus Smart or Draymond. Speaking of defense, Banchero also needs to improve in that category. Banchero was able to average 1.6 blocks per game with Duke, but that is barely enough to defend in the NBA. Banchero also struggles with mobilizing to defend on the perimeter, therefore his opponents may try to force him to guard on the perimeter. Though having some open holes, Banchero is a solid player who has plenty of time to improve before the 2022-23 NBA season.
Conclusion
Banchero is an excellent player who can hit tough shots and create them well. He struggles with defense but there’s always room for improvement. I hope he integrates well with Orlando over the Summer so they have a chance of making the playoffs next season, the Summer League will give Orlando a chance to finalize their lineup and Banchero will receive playing time with his teammates.
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