Former Milwaukee Bucks star Brandon Jennings recently sparked a debate when he compared Orlando Magic’s rising star Paolo Banchero to Aaron Gordon during an appearance on the ‘Gils Arena’ show. Jennings stated:
“He gives me like Aaron Gordon vibes… He’s a four, right? I think Paolo’s like this because he’s on Orlando right now, but if he went to another team, he would be like Aaron Gordon.”
Brandon Jennings says Paolo Banchero gives him ‘Aaron Gordon vibes’
“If he went to another team, he’d be like an Aaron Gordon.”
(🎥 @GilsArenaShow / h/t @IsaacGotClamps ) https://t.co/bL5b7OZRfs
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 24, 2024
The comparison between Banchero and Gordon is intriguing, given their differing trajectories and playing styles. Banchero, the number one overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s brightest young stars. In his rookie season, he averaged 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 42.7% from the field, earning him the Rookie of the Year title.
His sophomore season saw even more significant growth, with averages of 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, along with improved shooting percentages of 45.5% from the field and 33.9% from beyond the arc. Banchero’s stellar play earned him his first All-Star selection and helped lead the Magic to a 47-35 record, securing the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference.
On the other hand, Aaron Gordon’s tenure with the Magic was marked by his athleticism and versatility, but he never fully blossomed into a star player in Orlando. Gordon’s best statistical season with the Magic came in 2017-18, when he averaged 17.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 43.4% from the field and 33.6% from three-point range.
Despite his talents, Gordon was never named an All-Star and was primarily known for his dunking ability before being traded to the Denver Nuggets.
In Denver, Gordon found a more fitting role, becoming a key player on a championship team with his defense, rebounding, and slashing abilities. His move to Denver allowed him to thrive as a complementary piece alongside Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, culminating in a title run with the Nuggets in 2023.
While Jennings’ comparison of Banchero to Gordon might hold some weight in terms of their roles as versatile forwards, it’s clear that Banchero is on a different trajectory. Banchero has already surpassed Gordon in terms of individual accolades and is well on his way to becoming the face of the Magic franchise.
As Banchero continues to develop, it remains to be seen whether he will stay in Orlando long-term or seek a different situation, but his ceiling appears much higher than Gordon’s ever was during his time with the Magic.
Paolo Banchero Has A Chance To Be One Of The Faces Of The League
Paolo Banchero is rapidly emerging as one of the NBA’s most promising young talents, with the potential to become one of the faces of the league. His stats, while solid, might not leap off the page, but it’s his overall game that draws comparisons to a young Carmelo Anthony.
Banchero possesses a unique blend of size, power, and versatility, making him a formidable force on the court. He can slash to the basket, defend multiple positions, and has a reliable three-point shot. With continued development, particularly in his face-up game and post moves, Banchero’s ceiling is sky-high.
However, for Banchero to truly establish himself as one of the league’s marquee names, he will need to overcome some significant hurdles. The NBA is already brimming with young stars like Anthony Edwards, Victor Wembanyama, Jayson Tatum, and Ja Morant, all vying for the spotlight. To break through, Banchero will need to lead the Orlando Magic on deep playoff runs, elevating both his game and his team’s profile.
Playing in a smaller market like Orlando is another challenge. To gain national and international recognition, Banchero must deliver standout performances that lead the Magic to a top-three finish in the Eastern Conference and a deep playoff run. Consistently competing at a high level on the biggest stage is what will earn him the respect and attention needed to join the ranks of the NBA’s elite.
Paolo Banchero has already expressed his ambition, stating that he sees himself as an NBA champion within the next five years. His drive and commitment to improvement suggest he’s ready to put in the work necessary to reach those lofty goals. If he can lead the Magic to success, Banchero could very well become one of the faces of the league.
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