Two-time NBA champion makes bold prediction for Magic's Paolo Banchero
Former NBA champion Mike Miller believes Paolo Banchero will have a Hall of Fame career. The former sharpshooter's comments came on a recent episode of "The OGs Podcast," where he discussed the sophomore forward's growth and performances this season.
"I talk to him all the time," Miller said. "The reason he's going to be an All-Star this year and is gonna be a Hall of Famer is the way he answers s—. When I say old soul, I really mean it. He can go out and get 35 every night. He can attack. He can get to the foul line. He can shoot 12 free throws every game. ... He can continue to evolve his game, but his whole thing is, 'I just wanna win.'"
Banchero has proven himself to be a potential franchise player for the Orlando Magic. He won Rookie of The Year last season, he is already at an All-Star level and at 21 years old, he can continue to improve for the best part of a decade.
In his sophomore season, Banchero is currently averaging 21 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, shooting 48% from the field and 38.4% from three-point range.
Banchero plays with a pace and poise usually reserved for a veteran. He knows where he wants to go and uses his size and strength to get there. He, along with Franz Wagner, has accelerated the Magic's rebuild.
As a one-and-done prospect out of Duke, Banchero was expected to be an elite prospect. However, most prospects take a year or two before they begin to shine at a high level. Instead, he is already playing like an All-Star and will likely be fighting for an All-NBA spot within the next year.
Still, Miller's claim that Banchero is a future Hall of Famer is premature. There is a long time between now and when he calls time on his career. Yes, early signs indicate he's on that type of trajectory. But putting too much pressure on young players' shoulders is a mistake that's made far too often.
Rather than talking about what Banchero can be, it's easier to focus on what he is right now, and that's a 21-year-old All-Star talent in his second year in the NBA.
He is going to be a force in the years to come. His partnership with Wagner will allow the Magic to blossom into contenders. For now, that is more than enough. Especially at such an early stage in his career.
More must-reads: