Paolo Banchero, the star rookie forward for the Orlando Magic, just got a giant upgrade. He signed a five-year rookie max extension that could reach an incredible $239 million. This record-setting agreement could reach as high as $287 million, depending on how well he plays in future seasons. The agreement underscores Banchero’s significant impact since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Banchero made quite the introduction to the league. His success last year earned him the celebrated distinction of NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2022-23 season. His impressive performance continued, as he was named an All-Star in 2024, solidifying his place among the elite players in basketball. In his three NBA seasons, he’s been a highly productive player, averaging an efficient 22.4 points per game. He gobbles 7.1 rebounds and dishes 4.6 assists, displaying his versatile playmaking ability and skill on the court.
Banchero’s scoring prowess is well evident in his impressive career numbers. With 4,432 career points, he currently ranks third in career scoring for the Orlando Magic, and he has played only three seasons there. His new contract has 13 performance triggers that increase his modest base salary up to supermax levels. To unlock these triggers, he has to land at least one All-NBA team selection or win MVP or Defensive Player of the Year next season.
Banchero found great consistency throughout the 2024-25 season. He even went on a phenomenal streak, notching 25 points or more in seven straight games. This accomplishment now puts him tied for the longest streak in Orlando Magic history. Especially after the All-Star break, Banchero elevated his game to another level. He averaged a stunning 29.0 points, 7.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game over that span.
That’s not even taking into account how only eight players in NBA history have averaged 25+ points, 7+ rebounds, and 4+ assists by the age of 22 or younger. Now, Banchero is a member of this elite group! He capped a career-best season, averaging 25.9 points and 7.5 rebounds to add 4.8 assists. Unfortunately, an oblique injury derailed his progress. That was a contributing factor in keeping him off the field for 34 games during the early months of the current 2024-25 season.
Banchero’s emergence as a premier player has been pivotal for the Orlando Magic, contributing to a franchise turnaround marked by two postseason appearances over the last two years. He now joins legends Tracy McGrady and Shaquille O’Neal. Combined, they are the only other three Orlando Magic players besides Shaquille O’Neal to average more than 25 points in a single season.
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