Marc J. Spears lauds Paolo Banchero establishing himself as professional athlete: “20-year-old is vying for Rookie of the Year and All-Star”

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has hit the ground running in his rookie season. As Banchero continues to shine, many are wondering if the talented rookie could become an All-Star selection.

A rookie hasn't made an NBA All-Star team since Blake Griffin accomplished the feat in 2012. Banchero, however, has put up the production to prove his worth. He is averaging 21.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.0 steals per game. He's shooting 43.5%, including 31.3% from 3-point range.

Banchero came into the year as a heavy favorite to secure the Rookie of the Year award. While that prediction hasn't wavered, the 6-foot-10 forward also has a chance to find himself on an All-Star roster.

NBA analyst Marc Spears recently applauded Banchero for what he's already accomplished, saying: “The 20-year-old is vying for Rookie of the Year and All-Star."

Orlando coach Jamahl Mosley was quoted in Spears' recent article.

“I don’t think it is too early to talk All-Star with this kid,” Mosley said. “He is special, and he is going to be special. The best part about him is that he is special because he does it with his team. He doesn’t want accolades. He wants winning, to support his teammates and them to support him. It’s also about the numbers he is putting up.”

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Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero shining during rookie season

Orlando Magic rookie star Paolo Banchero

Orlando Magic rookie Paolo Banchero has the production to warrant an All-Star appearance. He has been sensational with his offensive output throughout the 2022-23 season.

As Spears mentioned, the issue of Orlando's record this season could be problematic. Orlando currently finds itself at 16-26. Still, the Magic finished 22-60 last season and 21-51 in 2020-21, so Orlando has made strides. The Magic were 7-35 at this point last season. Plus, Orlando is 13-22 with Banchero in the lineup.

Banchero is sure to have plenty of fans, especially when it comes to the fan vote. In the first results of the All-Star balloting, Banchero finished eighth among Eastern Conference frontcourt players.

Meanwhile, Banchero, the No. 1 pick in June's draft after leading Duke to the Final Four in his only college season, leads the NBA's Kia Rookie Ladder. Indiana's Bennedict Mathurin is second in that unofficial ranking.

Time will tell if Banchero will have a realistic shot to earn a spot on the NBA's All-Star teams. For now, the rookie forward continues to look like a star who is blossoming in his first season.