Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic had a wonderful rookie season.
With an average of 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 42.7% from the field, Banchero quickly become the centerpiece of his young, up-and-coming squad.
But he is wanting a whole lot more in his second season.
Speaking to SLAM, Banchero laid out his plans for 2023-24.
“Next year is the year where we kind of put ourselves in that conversation of being one of the better teams in the East, and then in the league,” Banchero said.
Paolo Banchero is charged up and ready to change the culture in Orlando. ⚡️
The Magic's rising star opens up about his impressive rookie season and looks ahead at what he, and the team, want to achieve in the near future.
Read here: https://t.co/nT52EdbUya pic.twitter.com/lVBwEfMF07
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) May 24, 2023
Banchero’s terrific opening year was enough to catch the attention of many.
It was also enough to earn him the 2022-23 Rookie of the Year trophy.
Despite all that, the Magic still fell very short and they didn’t even reach the playoffs.
Banchero believes that things can get a whole lot better next season – and he’s not the only one who thinks so.
He is the best player on the team, but Banchero is surrounded by a few enticing young athletes.
Franz Wagner, Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, and Bol Bol are just a few of the Magic players who could help improve Orlando’s chances in the seasons ahead.
Additionally, the team has the sixth pick in the upcoming draft next month.
That means they could acquire another young talent or perhaps deal the draft pick away to secure a star in the summer.
No matter who is playing with Banchero, he will still be the heart and soul and center of the team.
They didn’t have a great season but they were laying the groundwork for a long and promising future.
Will that future begin next season?
Fans are hoping that Banchero will soon be able to show his skill not only in the regular season but also in the playoffs.
NEXT: Paolo Banchero Joined An Elite Club In Magic History
