Orlando’s magic star Paolo Banchelo made the headline after signing a new contract extension with the franchise.
To be precise, Paolo Banchelo has agreed to the Orlando Magic’s largest five-year rookie contract worth $239 million. If all conditions were met, he could earn up to $287 million over the next five years.
After signing a massive deal, Banchelo sent a bold message to the fanbase, with his priority being to bring an NBA championship to Orlando.
With Banchero locked up with his team over the next five years, former NBA player Matt Barnes has urged Magic Star to play an additional role.
At the age of 22, Banchelo’s best year is still ahead of him, but he has already won the NBA Rookie of the Year and his first trip to the NBA All-Star Game.
Banchero signs a huge deal means that the magic expects him to be better in the future. Speaking of which, Burns believes that the next step for the Buncello is to take on one of the NBA’s faces.
“One thing I wanted to touch was Paolo. It was the way we kept the conversation about the face of the league and who would become an American player. His name hasn’t been thrown away, Rachel (Nichols) was absolutely incredible,” Burns said with all the smoke.
He added: “Big 6’9″, 6’10”, versatility, he is a dog. I’m a huge Paolo fan and he definitely needs to be involved in the league’s face conversations in the next 3-5 years. ”
Burns co-host Rachel Nichols also shared two cents in a statement.
“I don’t agree with you. By the way, (winning) Rookie of the Year will set you up in that conversation from the start,” Nichols said.
So far, Banchero has averaged 22.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game in his career. What’s likely to be hindering him is that there are no deep playoffs running on his resume.
Currently, LeBron James and Stephen Curry are the faces of the league, but with both stars approaching retirement, it’s clear that the league needs other stars to step up.
Of those players, Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards was expected to be on the forefront. But Edwards openly rejected the idea of wanting to be the face of the NBA.
He was called for his statement, but if Ali doesn’t want responsibility, then no one can force him. Instead, the NBA can turn to people like the bunchelo.
Alternatively, since joining LA Lakers, Luka Doncic could take on the role. At the end of the day, Edwards’ rejection of opportunities may not work with some, but the NBA has many other options too.