Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero during a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take declared his team a dark horse in the Eastern Conference. He asserted that the Magic have what it takes to compete with powerhouses like Jalen Brunson’s New York Knicks, the reigning champions Boston Celtics, Joel Embiid’s Philadelphia Sixers, and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks.
His confidence stems from the team’s significant improvement over the past two seasons, which included a significant 13-win jump in his second year as a professional. Banchero also highlighted the addition of veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope from the Denver Nuggets, as his presence brings championship experience and shooting prowess to the team.
We're right there with (Boston, Philadelphia, New York and others). I remember last year; we started the year off as a top-3, top-2 seed and everybody thought it was a fluke. Everybody thought we were going to be a Play-In team and drop out of the top of the East, but we finished strong and got the fifth seed – and had a chance to really grab the two-seed at the end of the season. Paolo Banchero said
The Magic’s young core, led by Banchero, Jalen Suggs, and Franz Wagner, has gained valuable playoff experience and is poised for further growth. There’s no doubt they have learned from their seven-game series loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers last season and would be roaring to go.
The 2022 NBA Draft’s first overall pick also boldly stated that the Magic should be considered a top-4 or top-3 team in the East, with a legitimate chance to win the conference. They open their season with an away trip to the Kaseya Center against top contenders, the Miami Heat.
Paolo’s Banchero’s all-time Duke starting five revealed
Paolo Banchero furthermore revealed his all-time starting five for Duke basketball as he left himself out of the lineup. Instead, he chose Dallas Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson, Lakers head coach JJ Redick, and Jahlil Okafor, as he cited their impressive skills and achievements during their time at Duke.
I would have to say Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson, J.J. Redick, and at the center, I think I'd go Jahlil Okafor. I think he won a championship as the best player as a freshman. I watched that live and direct. Paolo Banchero said on ESPN’s First Take
Banchero justified his selections, saying he based them on players he watched during his time at Duke or growing up. He acknowledged that Christian Laettner and Grant Hill, who played before his time, could also be included in such a lineup.
Banchero has made a remarkable start to his NBA career, which includes winning Rookie of the Year and All-Star nominations. Furthermore, as the Magic prepare for the upcoming season, he would be needed by the franchise and its supportive fans to see the challenges through.
