Orlando Magic Exercises Options on Three Players

The Orlando Magic have officially exercised their team options for the 2025/26 season on Paolo Banchero, Anthony Black, and Jett Howard. Banchero, the 2022 No. 1 overall pick and last season's Rookie of the Year, had an impressive outing, averaging 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, making him eligible for a rookie scale max extension next summer. Black, a 2023 lottery pick, played 69 games in his rookie season with averages of 4.6 points and 2.0 rebounds, while Howard, also a 2023 pick, had limited NBA experience but performed well in the G League. All three players are now secured with the team through the 2025-26 season. Banchero is set to earn approximately $15.3 million, Black $7.9 million, and Howard $5.5 million in that season. Paul George humorously commented on the Knicks' recent trade, reflecting on the skills of both Karl-Anthony Towns and Julius Randle.