Rewriting History: Reassessing the 2022 NBA Draft and Uncovering Hidden Gems in a Redrafted Scenario

1. Paolo Banchero — Orlando Magic

2022 Stats: 20.0 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.7 APG, 42.7-percent from the field

Original Draft Slot: No. 1 Overall (1st Round)

Banchero was everything Orlando thought he’d be. Not only did he win the Rookie of the Year Award, but he showed the fortitude in wanting to be ‘the man’ on this team. The Magic would routinely run plays through him during crunch time. Some guys shy away from the big moment, whereas Banchero relished it.

He does need to improve on his shooting (.298 from three) and turnover rate (2.8 per game). However, being such a young player, we see him having little issue improving in those categories. He really does represent the first franchise player in Orlando to get excited about since the days of Dwight Howard.

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