Paolo Banchero, F, Duke
Paolo Banchero is my No. 1 player in this year’s draft by a mile. Seeing Banchero ranked third on some mocks is an insult and is mindboggling. Banchero has the play style of LeBron James. I am not saying he is James, but as you read, you will understand why.
Paolo Banchero is everything and more you want in a prospect, and I would have him above both first overall selections in the last two years. Paolo is 6-foot-10, 250 lbs, and his mass and power go along with his large frame. Similar to LeBron James, Banchero has insane vision and offensive IQ. He will make passes that very few point guards can make.
Banchero is so overwhelming and powerful that his size and strength allow him to take advantage of almost any matchup. Banchero’s finesse with the ball is something special to watch; he will read the defender perfectly and execute spin moves and soft finishes at the rim that very few players his size can do.
Banchero has things he needs to work on in with his game. His hustle on offense is excellent, as he was the focal point of the Blue Devil’s offense. But Banchero puts out a ton of effort on offense, then lacks on defense. Still, Banchero can quickly improve on defense with his elite physical attributes. Banchero’s three-point game is his biggest struggle, as he is highly inconsistent. I see this three-point shooting improve as he doesn’t have poor form, and there are times he can make them without issues.
Overall, I firmly believe that Paolo Banchero deserves to be the first overall selection by the Orlando Magic. Yes, I understand they may draft Chet Holmgren, high school teammates with Jalen Suggs, and extremely close friends. But Banchero is the best player in this draft, and if the Magic want someone special, they can’t pass on him.