The Magic haven’t found much success in the win column, though the future of the roster looks bright as we near the quarter mark of the season.
Paolo Banchero looks the part of a star. The No. 1 overall pick is averaging 22.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game through 14 contests as a pro. He ranks 16th in the league in usage and he’s posting a solid 17.8 PER early on.
How the team continues to build around Banchero will be a major storyline over the next few years, though evaluating what they already have on the roster will be key.
Bol Bol Emerges
Banchero isn’t the only bright spot on the roster. Bol Bol has wildly exceeded expectations this season and while there is much talk about tanking around the league, Orlando believes it has a prospect that could rival any in the upcoming draft.
“Everyone talks about the Victor dude from France. I’m not trying to compare them, but Bol’s 7’2, shoots threes, brings it up the court, makes passes, and blocks shots. I feel like people kind of forget about him, but Bol’s a freak of nature,” Banchero said of his teammate.
Potential Trade Candidates
- Gary Harris – Harris is making $13.0M this season in the final year of his contract and he’s likely the team’s top trade candidate. He’s only played in 5 games this season, though since coming to Orlando at the 2021 trade deadline, he’s appeared in 86 contests, making 38.6% of his shots from downtown.
- Markelle Fultz – The Magic don’t necessarily have star power in the backcourt, though they are deep with young talent. Where Fultz factors into that calculus remains to be seen. The former No. 1 pick hasn’t yet played because of a toe injury, though the point guard could be an attractive asset for teams looking to add to their bench unit once he proves to be healthy.
Injury Updates
Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony will both be available to play for Wednesday’s tilt against the Hawks.
