That’s the way to start a season — and maybe an epic career.
Paolo Banchero placed himself in some legendary company with an opening night line of 27 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
Paolo Banchero was HISTORIC tonight, becoming the first No. 1 overall pick to drop 20+ PTS, 5+ REB, and 5+ AST in their NBA debut since LeBron James in 2003! pic.twitter.com/RrQwbl5h7r
— NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2022
What kind of legendary company is Banchero keeping?
Paolo Banchero became the 3rd player to put up 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in his NBA debut.
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) October 20, 2022
The other two: LeBron James & Grant Hill. pic.twitter.com/8rHlK7eTzo
It’s just one game, but it’s a reason for optimism in central Florida — and there were other positives as well. After a rough rookie season Jalen Suggs looked good with 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting, and Franz Wagner was his usual impressive self with 20.
The Magic’s young stars were not enough to get the win against another team with a bright future in Detroit. Veteran winger and new Piston Bojan Bogdanovic had 24 points, while Cade Cunningham started his second season with 18 points and 10 assists. Rookie Jalen Duren might be one of the steals of the draft and scored 14 off the bench.