“I plan on bringing everything I have to Orlando — just a winning mindset, a work-first mindset, and just ready to get in with the guys and get to work,” Paolo Banchero said on the 2022 NBA Draft day. His journey began when he was selected No. 1 overall by the Orlando Magic. Fans were thrilled and curious about this surprising choice. Expectations soared as Banchero stepped onto the court, ready to prove himself. In his debut, he scored 27 points, leaving spectators in awe. Was this junior player destined for greatness?

His skills became increasingly evident in his rookie season. He played 72 games averaging 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. The young hooper’s consistent standout performances earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. His impact on the court transformed the Magic’s trajectory and brought renewed hope. Each game showcased his potential, and fans rallied behind him.

Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley acknowledged the hooper’s ability and said, “He had the ability to adjust in-game to whatever was asked of him to impact winning.” 

Paolo Banchero entered his second season with higher hopes. He continued to impress and secured his first All-Star selection. He appeared in 80 games, posting improved stats with 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.

This season he has started strong with impressive performances. With four regular-season games, he averages 28.5 points and 9.3 rebounds. He’s been doing well with his shooting, hitting 48% of his shots. But he didn’t stop there. He demonstrated his ability to create opportunities, with an average of 6.0 assists per game. On defense, he recorded one block and almost one steal per game. The Magic, now on a 3-1 record, shows how much influence he has. But one question surfaces: How much does the Magic pay him?

Paolo Banchero and his salary with Orlando Magic

On July 1, 2022, Paolo signed a rookie-scale contract and became part of the Orlando Magic. The Magic were to spend $50,158,769 on a contract lasting between 2 and 4 years. The contract’s average yearly value is about $12,539,692, around 9% of the team’s salary cap.

Orlando Magic and its financial position for the 2024-25 season

Yes, you read it right. The Orlando Magic is in a strong financial position this season. With a payroll of $150.3 million, they rank 4th-lowest in the NBA. They’re $9.8 million over the salary cap. However, the NBA’s “soft” salary cap allows for flexibility in building. How can flexibility help the Magic improve their roster? They are one of 20 teams benefiting from this financial strategy.

Orlando entered the offseason with about $50 million in cap space. They utilized this to sign Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a 3-year deal. Banchero, still on a rookie scale contract, will soon become extension-eligible. Will the Magic be able to negotiate a new max deal for him? His future new contract will probably justify his talent numerically! Franz Wagner’s extension also won’t hit the books until next season, easing the financial pressure.

This season, the Magic is well-positioned. Their financial health may attract teams needing to offload larger salaries! With valuable pieces on team-friendly deals, Orlando becomes a potential trade partner. What moves could they make to strengthen their roster?