NBA radio host hopes Paolo Banchero’s ‘historically good’ start does not go unnoticed

For better or worse, parts of the NBA have always had their focus on the next big thing.

One of the best examples of this is the NBA draft. Take Victor Wembanyama – a long-time commodity who came into the league with sky-high expectations after seeing only a glimpse of what he could be in the NBA. Incoming Duke freshman Cooper Flagg has been lobbied for several years as the No. 1 pick in this upcoming 2025 draft.

However, it also means that talent already in the league may be overlooked. Count Justine Termine, host of SiriusXM NBA Radio, as among those against this event – ​​especially as it pertains to Orlando Magic 2022 No. 1 overall draft pick Paolo Banchero.

“You’re talking about overall number one picks, Banchero turns out to be a very good number one overall pick himself,” Termine said on Friday’s episode of NBA Today with cohost Eddie Johnson, “and I hope this doesn’t go under the radar. .”

Termine then went on to list the players in NBA history who, before age 22, played at least two seasons and averaged at least 21 points, six rebounds and four assists per game. Four names make that list: LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Luka Doncic and Banchero.

About the list, Termine said: “LeBron and Jordan are arguably two of the greatest offensive players of all time. Luka is on his way to becoming one of the greatest offensive players of all time. And it’s Paolo Banchero.

‘He’s been that good. He has been historically good.”

Banchero last year became the youngest player in NBA history to lead his team in points, rebounds and assists in a single season, earned his first All-Star appearance and helped the Magic to 47 wins and a playoff appearance last year. performance. He was on another level in the playoffs, averaging 27 points, 8.6 rebounds and four assists in seven games against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Johnson, a 17-year NBA veteran and cohost of the show, also offered his perspective. He said he would like to see Banchero become a better rebounder because of his size, but then sang his praises.

“I think he’s got the full package. I think he’s got everything,” Johnson said. “…So no, you’re not standing there outside the center at all. I mean, I love him. I think he’s great, and he fits in well with a young team. That’s hard to do when you’re a young team .Guy and you have other young guys trying to prove themselves, but still he’s taken over.

To listen to the full interview episode, click here.

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