Getty Image / Jamie Sabau
Paolo Banchero is one of the best young players in the league. And, the second-year Orlando Magic forward put people on notice just how good he is with a clutch game-winner to beat the buzzer and the Bulls in Chicago.
Take a look at his great move, and excellent touch on the finish.
PAOLO BANCHERO GAME WINNER 🤯
Close call for the Magic (+108 ML) 😅pic.twitter.com/sioaPinBWs
— FanDuel Sportsbook (@FDSportsbook) November 16, 2023
This play encapsulates the 2022-2023 NBA Rookie of the Year’s game perfectly. Yeah, the 6-foot-10 forward is a great athlete. But, he also plays incredibly under control, can score at all three levels, and uses his big frame impressively. And, for a guy his size, Banchero has impressive dexterity.
NBA and Magic fans were loving the buzzer beater. It’s the second big late shot he’s hit this year, with one against the Jazz earlier this season. And, it was over Alex Caruso, one of the best defensive players in the league.
“Paolo Banchero game winner over one of the best defenders in the business,” @OrlMuse said.
“Big time shot by Paolo Banchero who struggled shooting the ball tonight but rather than hang his head he still got to the line, rebounded, defended,and competed which put him in position to do this. Never stop playing hard, always stay engaged on both ends and good things happen,” @rosskre said.
“Paolo Banchero is a skilled bully,” @BallDon’tStop said.
On the night, Paolo Banchero had 17 points and 9 rebounds. This season, he’s averaging nearly 19 points a game, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists on really efficient shooting numbers. He just turned 21 on Sunday, and the sky is the limit for him and the Magic. The Magic are 6-5 so far this season, and that young core seems to be growing up.