"I'm going to play all 82"- NBA draft's 1st pick is ready for NBA season's grind, says missing games is something he has never really done throughout his career
Orlando Magic rookie and top pick from the 2022 NBA Draft in Paolo Banchero, is ready to hit the ground running. Banchero has generated buzz throughout the offseason with his play in the Summer League. He's continued to impress with his play during the NBA's preseason as well.
Although the Orlando Magic continue their rebuild, Banchero looks to have the tools to be a force early on. The 19-year-old forward has found himself as one of the favorites for the NBA's Rookie of the Year award. After being selected 1st overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, fans are excited to see what Banchero can do.
Banchero gives the Magic another dangerous offensive weapon in their rotation. It's part of the reason why the talented forward is expected to have such a strong rookie season. In a recent interview with "SiriusXM NBA Radio," Paolo Banchero talked about his desire to play as much as possible this season. He went on to say that he wants to play all 82 games, given that his body holds up.
"I'm going to play all 82. I'm 19, I'll be 20 in November. Obviously I need recovery rest but I think I should be able to play as many games as I can. If it's up to me, I'd play every game."
"I'm going to play all 82."
Paolo Banchero expects to play every game of his rookie season.
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Orlando Magic rookie Paolo Banchero looks to make noise in first NBA season
There's no denying that basketball fans are excited to see what Paolo Banchero can do during his rookie season. The Orlando Magic forward was brought in with the hope of becoming a franchise building block. After hitting gold with their lottery selection of Franz Wagner last season, Orlando has the opportunity to have another big-time asset in their rebuilding effort.
Banchero has the scoring ability from multiple levels to insert a jolt of excitement into the Orlando organization. With a plethora of talent on the roster, Orlando looks to be trending in the right direction. Throughout his interview, Banchero also talked about how throughout his career he's always wanted to play as many games as possible.
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It should be welcoming news for Magic fans, especially with the opportunity to have Banchero and the young pieces on the roster continue to develop. Over the course of five preseason games, Banchero went on to average 14.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists while shooting 45.1% from the field. For now, it looks as if Magic fans will hope to get a full season of play from their number one overall pick.