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2022 Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Each top prospect’s case for No. 1

By Patrick Previty

Paolo Banchero is among the players Orlando Magic fans are pining for in the NBA Draft. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Paolo Banchero is among the players Orlando Magic fans are pining for in the NBA Draft. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Paolo Banchero, Duke Blue Devils
DURHAM, NC – JANUARY 22: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Duke Blue Devils react following a three-point basket against the Syracuse Orange in the second half at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 22, 2022 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

Orlando Magic Draft Preview: Each player’s case for No. 1

Paolo Banchero

Paolo Banchero was the leader of Mike Krzyzewski’s last Duke team that went all the way to the Final Four before losing to rival North Carolina.

He was the undisputed best player on that Blue Devil squad. Banchero led the team in points and rebounds while also being second on the team in assists.

In the NCAA Tournament, he rose to the occasion and averaged an extra point and half per game while shooting almost two percentage points higher per game.

For the season he shot 34-percent from the 3-point line. But in the final games of the NCAA Tournament, he shot 10 for 19.

Banchero’s offensive game is smooth and versatile. He can work well on and off the ball, while also showing his own arsenal of moves down on the block.

Paolo Banchero is the best ball handler out of the three and can add playmaking to take the pressure off of Jalen Suggs, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony.

He has a refined offensive game that flourishes off of ball screens, post moves and dribble drives.

Banchero is the readiest prospect to make an impact in an NBA game today.

Next. NBA Draft will shine a light in Orlando Magic's direction. dark

And if the Magic want to hit the ground running and speed up the rebuild, they will take the NBA-ready Paolo Banchero.