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NBA Draft 2022: Top 5 options Orlando Magic should take with No. 1 pick

By Noah Whitaker

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 11: Franz Wagner #22 (left), Mo Bamba #5 (middle), and Jalen Suggs #4 (right) of the Orlando Magic react during the fourth quarter Minnesota Timberwolves at Amway Center on March 11, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 11: Franz Wagner #22 (left), Mo Bamba #5 (middle), and Jalen Suggs #4 (right) of the Orlando Magic react during the fourth quarter Minnesota Timberwolves at Amway Center on March 11, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /
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Paolo Banchero Duke Blue Devils (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
Paolo Banchero Duke Blue Devils (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

4. Paolo Banchero – Duke Blue Devils

If you are wondering why so low for arguably the best player in the draft I just don’t think this is the best decision for both parties.

Let’s get into some positives first. Banchero can be a top-20 player in the league due to his impressive offensive talent. He has a potent faceup game, he’s physical yet smooth, can operate on all 3-levels, developed a sense of vision due to drawing doubles, and is another fearless competitor; which can all can be injected into the new Magic culture.

There is just the issue of not being the best defender available. Can he guard wings or opposing big men? That seems to be the main question about the former Duke star right now, That could also be the reason he isn’t a surefire top lock at the #1 spot. Simply his offense alone isn’t enough to propel the Magic to new heights.

Having relatively weak perimeter defense already the Magic need a player able to recover quickly and be quick/decisive in defensive reactions weakside. Pairing him alongside Carter Jr. may scream to other teams that there can be opposing actions to expose the possible Banchero/Carter Jr. frontcourt.

Banchero isn’t the best at protecting the rim. All the teams left have shown that you need rim protectors, somebody to cover the backline. NBA frontcourts must be capable on the defensive end to make up for the perimeter woes. Suggs and Wagner could grow into above-average perimeter defenders yet it’s going to be the frontcourt pairing next to Carter Jr. to elevate the ceiling of the team.

I fully believe from a development standpoint and team fit, Banchero would be better off elsewhere. What could he offer more than the next three prospects…?

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