Within this Magic which is only in the very first stages of assembling its “puzzle”, to use the words of its coach Jamahl Mosleythe rookie Paolo Banchero should grow very quickly.
Probable holder on position 4, the first choice of the last Draft should in any case obtain a significant playing time from his first year, and he is therefore logically considered, by the bookmakersas the favorite for the 2023 Rookie of the Year trophy.
A projection that aligns perfectly with that of the interested party, who admits that the title of the ” Rookie Of The Year is indeed his goal on an individual level this season. Without overshadowing the importance of collective success, at this stage of the reconstruction of the Magic.
« I just want to be a good teammate in the first place. Collectively, I would like us to be in the race, whether for the playoffs or the play-in. Or at least that we are competitive in every game » he indeed announced with ambition. ” I’m also aiming for ‘Rookie Of The Year’, on a personal level. »
Understand before acting
High expectations and ambitious goals, therefore, that the president of the Magic then tempers with a more pragmatic approach.
« Learning, growing on a daily basis and above all understanding how to win in this league is already a successful first season. “explained Jeff Weltman, well aware that Rome was not built in a day. ” We must convey these values not only to Paolo, but to all our players. Our first mission in his career must be to give him insight into all that is needed, from a shadow work perspective, to be successful in the results in this league. »
And if Jeff Weltman’s speech may seem “old fashioned” in the eyes of a rookie ready to prove himself, it is above all a way of protecting Paolo Banchero from all the external expectations that may surround him, as number #1 in a Draft.
A feeling shared by his teammate Markelle Fultz, well placed to give his opinion. ” I think the most important advice I can give him is to consider that there are no expectations around him. The only expectations that exist are those that he sets for himself. “confided the first choice of the Draft 2017. “ He’s a great guy, and as long as he gives his all for this club, the rest will follow naturally, the accolades will come to him. »
