“6ft 10″ Paolo Banchero Could be an All-Star in his Rookie Year”: A Look at the Magic Rookie’s Stats Bearing Resemblance to LeBron James’ Freshman

Paolo Banchero created waves in the 2022 NBA draft by going first overall. His competitor, Chet Holmgren, looked like a lock for the top spot for a while, but the Orlando Magic man went first. His ascendancy to the NBA got overshadowed by Victor Wembanyama, and he took it personally.

All through the summer, fans were going nuts over the Frenchman—they gave him the hype that a high school LeBron James got. Imagine being almost phased out of people’s minds before even playing a professional game. That was Banchero’s situation.

And what did he do to rectify it? Oh, he just leads the rookie class of this year in points and is at the top of the rookie ladder too. His stats and attitude look eerily similar to two No.23 wearers of the past. Michael Jordan’s attitude, mixed with a rookie Bron’s stats—mix them, and you have an Italian playing for the Magic.

Paolo Banchero is scoring more points than a young LeBron did, and with better efficiency as well. What he’s slightly down on in comparison are the defense and passing, but it’s still early days. Even then, it’s not by much, because they are comparable.

Banchero’s electric start to life in the league did not translate to a good start for the team. Although they are 13th in the table, they are 7-3 in their last 10, they are only looking up. Banchero is the anti-LeBron James: a power forward who plays for a team he hates, the Orlando Magic.

Also Read: “I Was Never #1 Before the Draft”: Paolo Banchero Hated Just Being a Top-3 Recruit, Uses it to Avoid Complacency

Paolo Banchero already lost to LeBron James in one race – He did not win the ROTM

LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony had one of the tightest ROTY races ever. Winning all their ROTMs in their respective conferences, Bron edged out his Banana Boat crew friend for the trophy. Carmelo, however, edged him out in the playoff run.

Paolo Banchero, on the other hand, has been unable to replicate that run since losing to Benedict Mathurin for the first two months. He, however, is in strong contention for December with his bullish run. He’s staying firm at the top of the rookie ladder, too, and has set his sights higher.

He’s not going to let losing one month’s ranking take a mental toll on him. The way he is playing, there’s no one better suited for that end-of-year prize currently.

Also Read: “Bol Bol Was One Of The Greatest at His Size, to See Another…”: Victor Wembanyama Coming Into the NBA has Gilbert Arenas and Rashad McCants Excited

Will Banchero be an All-Star? Or will he have to stay happy with the Rookie Competition this year?

Chances are he might not make it to the final roster. He will, however, get a bunch of votes. But since he’s a rookie Forward, chances are he’d lose out to someone like Julius Randle or DeMar DeRozan.

That should not deter him though, because he’s replicating what LeBron James did 20 years ago. The kid is becoming a man – Orlando should be wary though. Markelle Fultz, another 1st pick is only now coming of age after 5 long years.

Also Read: Who is Chuma Okeke? Magic Forward Who Stunned Stephen Curry and the Warriors