Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has entered his third NBA season and already appears to be building on last season's success. In the 22-23 NBA season, Banchero became a first-time All-Star and led the Magic to the playoffs for the first time in 4 years. Paolo appears primed to lead the Magic to new heights as his game has already elevated to a new level this season. At 22 years old, he is already one of the most talented young players in the league but don't be surprised if his game takes another huge leap this year.
So far this season, Banchero is achieving career highs in points, assists, rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage. He averages 29 points per game, making him tied as the sixth-highest scorer in the NBA. Banchero has already made history with his scoring ability this season. In a recent win over the Magic, he scored a career-high 50 points, marking the seventh 50-point performance of his career and tying for the fifth-highest-scoring game in Magic history.
After the game, Banchero reflected on his performance, saying, “It was just being in the zone. It felt like I was in an open gym back at home, just working on my game. Every shot felt like it was going in, and it’s a good feeling when you have a day like that. Not every game is going to be like that, but I’m glad today was.”
In addition to his impressive scoring, Banchero also recorded 13 rebounds, nine assists, two blocks, and one steal, which was the most outstanding performance of his young career.
If Paolo continues to play at his current level, he not only has the potential to become a top 10 player in the NBA, but he could also make the Eastern Conference even more competitive. Last season, the Magic finished as the fifth seed in the East and faced the Cavaliers in the first round, where they lost in a closely contested seven-game series. With a solid young team surrounding him, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Magic secure a top 4 seed in the Eastern Conference—something they haven't accomplished since the 2010-2011 NBA season. For the Magic to accomplish such a feat they will need Paolo to be at his best, which I believe will lead to an All-NBA caliber season for him.
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