Based on recent statistical indicators, some fans could claim that Paolo Banchero is playing at a level that only a rookie LeBron James would be capable of doing. As many NBA fans might be aware, Paolo was the 1st pick in the 2023 NBA Draft and selected by the Orlando Magic.
One might argue that he has proven to be the best player in this draft class so far. Especially since Chet Holmgren has missed this entire season after being injured by LeBron James in a Pro-Am game before the NBA season began.
In any case, let us take a closer look at what is so special about Banchero’s achievement and how much recognition it should be given.
Paolo Banchero has recorded the same number of 20-point NBA games as LeBron James in his rookie year
It looks like Paolo Banchero has done everything possible to ensure that he will be winning the Rookie of the Year Award this season. He has been playing quite impressively this season for the Magic. Paolo has been averaging 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists for his team.
Banchero turned a lot of heads after news broke out that he has finished this season after having recorded 40 20-point games. This speaks to a level of consistency and confidence in a rookie, something that only a rookie LeBron James was capable of doing.
Paolo Banchero finished his first season with 40 20-point games, the same amount LeBron James had as a rookie.
What an achievement 👏 pic.twitter.com/ekVhYftBE9
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 9, 2023
The statistics also prove that Paolo is first in points per game (PPG) when compared to the other players in his draft class. Moreover, he is also leading the list for most 25-point and 30-point games amongst the rookies. He is also a good player to watch and displays impressive feats of athleticism at times.
Banchero is almost certainly going to win the ROTY award, just like LeBron did. All of this might just inadvertently end up putting more pressure on him to carry the Magic back into relevance. No one really expected him to do so in his first year with them. They have finished this season with a record of 34 wins and 47 losses giving them the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference.
Hopefully, both Paolo and his team will mature and develop their game furthermore heading into the next season. There is no denying that he has a significant amount of potential. Orlando should look to capitalize on that and do what is possible in order to eventually compete for an NBA title.