After a frustrating loss, Paolo Banchero didn’t sugarcoat the issues. The Magic’s offense has been sputtering lately, and Banchero was quick to point out that the team is still searching for answers-particularly when it comes to generating consistent, quality looks.
On the offensive struggles:
Banchero acknowledged what’s become a recurring theme: the team isn’t finding a sustainable rhythm on offense.
“That’s been our struggle as of late,” he said. “Just how we’re going to manufacture good looks and good possessions time after time.”
The Magic did manage to create some open shots during the heart of the game, but they simply didn’t fall. And when it mattered most-down the stretch-they couldn’t find reliable ways to create high-percentage opportunities.
That lack of execution in crunch time continues to haunt them.
On finding positives despite the loss:
Even in defeat, Banchero saw signs of progress.
“It was a step in the right direction,” he said. The team played with better structure and energy, and while the result didn’t go their way, he emphasized the importance of doing the right things consistently-regardless of the scoreboard.
It’s the kind of mindset that keeps a young team grounded during the ups and downs of an 82-game grind.
On why the shots didn’t fall:
Sometimes it’s just basketball.
“That’s the game,” Banchero said. The opponent found their rhythm in the second half, especially by capitalizing on offensive rebounds and second-chance opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Magic were often one-and-done on their trips down the floor. Missed layups, missed open threes-it all added up.
In a game of runs, those missed chances can swing momentum fast.
On the slow starts and the pressure it creates:
Getting off to better starts has become a priority.
Banchero pointed the finger at the starting unit, saying, “That falls on us.” Defense has been a calling card for this team at times, but lately, they’ve come out flat in the first quarter.
That defensive dip forces the offense to play catch-up-never an ideal formula. Against this opponent, they managed to keep it close early, finishing the first quarter 25-23, but the offensive production just wasn’t there to carry them the rest of the way.
On Moe Wagner’s impact in the pick-and-roll:
One bright spot?
The chemistry with Moe Wagner. Banchero lit up when talking about Wagner’s presence in the two-man game.
“Huge addition,” he said. Wagner’s ability to score, pass, and make the right reads adds another layer to the offense.
He’s unselfish and plays within the system-exactly the kind of player who makes those around him better.
On being used off the ball and adapting to lineup changes:
Banchero’s versatility continues to be a weapon, especially when he’s used off the ball-coming off screens, attacking closeouts, and keeping defenses honest.
But with the lineup in flux for much of the season, that continuity hasn’t always been there. “It’s new,” he admitted.
“We haven’t had consistent lineups pretty much throughout the year.” Still, he credited the coaching staff and teammates for trying to find the right balance.
On defending Donovan Mitchell in the rematch:
Looking ahead, Banchero knows the challenge that awaits in Cleveland-especially when it comes to containing Donovan Mitchell.
“It starts just keeping the ball square,” he said. Mitchell got loose in the fourth quarter after being bottled up for much of the night.
Banchero praised Anthony Black’s defensive effort, but emphasized the need to sustain that same level of physicality for a full 48 minutes. “Give him credit,” Banchero said.
“He’s a hell of a player.” The goal next time?
Make him work for everything-without overcommitting and giving up easy kickouts.
The Magic are still a team in search of consistency-on both ends of the floor. But if there’s one thing clear from Banchero’s postgame comments, it’s that they’re not shying away from the hard conversations.
They know the issues. Now it’s about finding solutions.