During last year’s NBA draft, Paolo Banchero was the first overall pick for the Orlando Magic. The former Duke Blue Devil, Banchero joined Mike Miller (who happens to be Banchero’s agent) and Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal as the only other players in franchise history to win Rookie of the Year.
Banchero dominated the voting, claiming 98 first-place votes and 494 of a possible 500 points. He led all rookies in scoring with 20.0 points per game. That average would be the best on the Orlando Magic as well. Banchero proved to be a resilient scorer as he went for 20 or more points 40 times this season. Orlando, however, finished 34-48 on the season, 12th in the east. Looking at that record, in addition to the fact that the Magic didn’t have too many televised games, you probably aren’t thrilled with the results. That’s okay because Magic fans should feel optimistic that they can contend for a playoff spot in the East next season. Even though the play-in tournament is most likely the ceiling for this team. This team is young, hungry, and extremely fun to watch.
Where Do Magic Go From Here?
It starts with the frontcourt for Orlando. Banchero, along with frontcourt mates Franz Wagner and Wendell Carter, each averaged over 15 points during the season. Bol Bol is a freakishly gifted athlete with the handles of a guard. He showed flashes of being a solid role player once his production increased throughout the year. Carter led the team in rebounds with 8.7 per contest. If the Magic want to take that step, Carter needs to grab double-digit rebounds almost every night. The Magic ranked 15th in rebounding last season, and with the length that is on that team, they must get within the top ten in the league.
The oldest player on the roster is 31 (Micheal Carter-Williams). With their youth, this team likes to get up and down the court and score. A lottery pick will be available for this team next month. The Magic must continue to hit on draft picks. As long the higher-ups draft around the reigning Rookie of The Year, the Orlando Magic will surprise teams next season.
