As the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, the Orlando Magic find themselves navigating choppy waters. With a promising young core led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, expectations were sky-high. Yet, as we hit the All-Star break, the Magic sit at 28-25, holding the 7th spot in the Eastern Conference-a performance that some might call underwhelming.
Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA champion, didn't hold back on "NBA Today," pinpointing Banchero as a key disappointment. "Paolo Banchero has been the biggest disappointment player-wise," Perkins declared.
"We had high hopes for him as one of the top five young players under 25. But he's taken steps backward, and I'm questioning his role as the franchise guy moving forward."
Perkins' critique may sound harsh, but given Banchero's potential, it's worth examining. Standing at 6'10" and weighing 250 lbs, Banchero is a physical marvel with a versatile offensive game. Yet, his inconsistencies this season have raised eyebrows.
Currently, Banchero is averaging 21.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. While solid, these numbers fall short of last season's 25.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 4.8 APG. A closer look reveals a drop in shot attempts, indicating a shift in his offensive role.
His field goal percentage remains stable, but with 4.2 fewer shots per game, it's clear something's changed. Criticism often targets his shot selection, yet he's posting a career-best 55.9% true shooting percentage. His midrange game, at 37.1%, could use work, but with only 15.7% of his shots from midrange, this critique seems slightly off the mark.
The real concern might be the team's performance with Banchero on the floor. In his 43 games, the Magic are 21-22, while they boast a 7-3 record without him. Their offensive rating stands at 113.6 (19th in the NBA), but jumps to 120.7 in the 10 games Banchero missed.
This situation hints at a potential crossroads for the Magic and Banchero. With tensions reportedly simmering between the star and the head coach, a change might be on the horizon for both parties. Whether this means a fresh start elsewhere for Banchero or a strategic shift for the Magic, only time will tell.