Orlando Magic Lock Paolo Banchero Five-Year Max Extension

The Orlando Magic have secured star forward Paolo Banchero with a five-year maximum rookie contract extension worth up to $287 million, including a rare player option in the final year. At just 22, Banchero has already made a significant impact, averaging around 22.4 points per game and ranking third in franchise history for scoring, with career-high averages of 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists last season despite missing extensive time due to an oblique injury. The contract includes performance escalators tied to MVP honors, All-NBA, and Defensive Player of the Year recognitions. Orlando's President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman emphasized the mutual commitment between Banchero and the organization, highlighting the Magic's confidence in their young core, which also includes Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Desmond Bane. With this extension, the Magic aim to build a championship-contending team around Banchero, who has demonstrated playoff prowess by matching franchise playoff scoring records and tying NBA legends with his early career postseason performances.