Everything seems to indicate that Orlando highly values Paolo Banchero and will move heaven, earth, and earth to keep him on their roster. The Italian-American forward agreed to a five-year maximum rookie contract extension with the Magic, which includes a player option for the fifth year.
This is the first time a deal of this type includes a fifth-year option since the extensions for Luka Doncic and Trae Young in 2021. Furthermore, the contract could increase in value if Banchero is voted MVP, or if he makes either the All-NBA or All-Defensive teams during the 2025-2026 season.
How much will Paolo Banchero earn with the Magic after a new contract?
The Magic and Banchero agreed to a five-year, $239 million maximum rookie contract extension, worth up to $287 million, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported. The forward was entering the final year of his rookie contract after the Magic selected him with the first pick in the 2022 draft.
Banchero has already made an indelible mark on the Magic franchise in just three seasons. He has already scored 4,432 points in his career, and his average of 22.4 points per game ranks third in Magic history, behind only Tracy McGrady and Shaquille O’Neal-pretty good company.
Paolo Banchero’s injury with Orlando sidelined him for 34 games
Banchero posted career-high averages of 25.9 points and 7.5 rebounds last season. He missed 34 games with an oblique injury, but still shined when healthy; the Orlando Magic (2024) reached the first round of the playoffs, where they were eliminated by the Cavaliers.
In Orlando, they are betting heavily on the development of their young core. In an Eastern Conference with plenty of competitive edge, the Magic are confident that this historic investment will lead them to contention in the coming seasons. However, their current situation still generates debate among league analysts.
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