The Orlando Magic and Paolo Banchero season has been a real Russian mountain because of physical problems. Banchero himself lost 36 games due mainly, to a muscular tear, although he reached full performance to some playoffs where he was the best of his team despite falling before Boston Celtics in five games.
Banchero averaged 29.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 4.2 assists in the tie, but their good numbers came accompanied by a very bitter flavor after falling for the second consecutive campaign in the first round.
“Statistically this is my best season, but I don’t feel like that,” began the power wing, according to the journalist Marc J. Spears. «I really faced this course waiting to dominate to the playoffs and achieve all my goals. So, when that does not happen, leave much to be desired and you have a great void. I will not start the preseason thinking: ‘I just had a spectacular year, I’m fine’. No. I feel as if they had stolen something. No one has done it, but that’s how I feel. I just want to take off ».
-Regarding its potential contract extension for five years and 250 million, Banchero expressed his desire to continue in Orlando and assume the responsibility that this implies. «That is the goal of every young player who arrives in this league: consolidate soon and get that second contract. So, when the time comes, I am sure that all that will be resolved. They say more money, more problemsbut we’ll see what happens.
This week, the president of the Magic, Jeff Weltman, said they will address the summer with the priority of correcting the two main problems of the staff: the outer shot and the offensive versatility. Weaknesses that Banchero shares. «We have a clear idea of our fissures and what we need to improve. We just have to address some of those aspects. I really want to see what changes will be made. But I will be ready to work, whether there are changes as if there are no.
(David Butler I-Imagn Images)
