With the 2022-23 NBA season coming to a close, the Orlando Magic are currently pursing a possible playoff berth. There are less than ten games left and the team took a huge step from last season until now.
One of the big steps was their first-overall pick Paolo Banchero who was electric throughout his rookie season. However, he is one of many rookies who had great seasons. Will he take home the 2022-23 NBA rookie of the year award?
Franchise Changer
When the Orlando Magic won the NBA lottery, there was tons of speculation about who the number one overall pick should/would be. The names highlighting the class included Banchero as well as Jabari Smith and Chet Holmgren. However, the Magic went with Banchero and it is safe to say that they made the perfect decision.
Orlando’s President of Basketball Operations Jeff Westman expressed the love Banchero had for the team prior to the draft in a post-draft press conference back on June 23rd:
“Paolo has always expressed a great interest in us. He talked with myself at length about it along with coach Mosley, and various other staff members.”
This season, Banchero has averaged 19.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. He leads all NBA rookies in points and is top 5 amongst rookies in assists and rebounding. He is also the leading scorer on the Magic as well as second on the team in rebounding and third on the team in assists.
Banchero’s Role and Distinct Playing Style in Orlando
Orlando hired Jamahl Mosley for the success he had in Dallas with developing players. The team obviously has faith that the former Duke Blue Devil can be something special and can really get the team back to competing again.
A good attribute to Banchero’s game is his ball-handling. At 6 feet, 10 inches tall, he has a great handle on the basketball; so much so that other players in the league take notice as well.
Brooklyn Nets guard/forward Mikal Bridges commented on the No. 1 overall pick’s ball-handling ability following their loss to Orlando this season. He said this on YES Network:
“I like him a lot… He’s tough. His handle… is way tighter than I thought. And the thing is, he’s still playing the right way.”
Banchero has been impressive in Orlando and for fans around the world. He already is topping his team and his rookie class statistically which should lead him to the prized rookie of the year award.