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Magic head coach has mind-boggling comparison for Paolo Banchero
Orlando Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley has some of the best young talent in the NBA at his disposal. Paolo Banchero is the Magic's crown jewel. The reigning Rookie of the Year possesses size, speed, power and exceptional basketball IQ. Coming out of the Duke system, Banchero is as polished as you could expect for a player entering his second season.
Given his unique blend of size, skill and IQ, Mosley believes there's no direct comparison for Banchero. When speaking on the "HoopsHype Podcast," the head coach discussed how his star young player has taken aspects of his game from some of the best players in the league.
“Because the game has changed so much over the years with players getting more talented and higher IQs, you have to give combinations," Mosley said. "Paolo is a combination of Carmelo (Anthony), LeBron (James) and (Jayson) Tatum. There are different combinations of things they possess. The passing skills. The ability to score in different areas. The power that they possess...You don’t want to label them as just this or that person. There’s a combination of each one that they possess because they study the game and they watch all these great players.”
Banchero spent this summer at the FIBA World Cup with Team USA. Steve Kerr didn't utilize the impressive young forward to the best of his abilities. Yet, Banchero still had some memorable moments. As he heads into his sophomore season, Orlando will be hopeful that their Rookie of the Year is a better player because of his experiences.
As a rookie, Banchero flashed the upside of a genuine star talent. He already has a three-level scoring game, along with the size and athleticism to become a genuine defensive force.
There's an outside chance that Banchero will make an All-Star team in the coming season. He's that good.
If the Magic can continue to develop the talent on their roster and resist the urge to speed up their timeline, Banchero will be a serious force. Mosley's comparisons may seem wild, but there's some truth in there, too.
You do see shades of Jayson Tatum when Banchero is attacking off the dribble or pulling up for a jumper. And there is some LeBron James in his game when barreling through a defense or charging down on defense. A smooth shooting stroke makes the Carmelo Anthony comparisons fair, too.
If he stays grounded, Banchero could find himself on a path to NBA greatness. We've already witnessed the first act. Repeating it in his second year will tell us a lot more about what's in store for the 20-year-old forward.
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