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Banchero Shuts Down NBA Stars in LA
26 Feb
Summary
- Paolo Banchero led the Orlando Magic to victory against the Clippers and Lakers.
- Banchero guarded top stars like Kawhi, Luka, and LeBron effectively.
- This win marks the fifth time the Magic beat LA teams on the road in one season.
The Orlando Magic concluded their west coast road trip with two victories in Los Angeles against the Clippers and Lakers. This success is particularly notable as it marks the fifth instance in the team's history that they have defeated both LA franchises on the road within the same season, a feat not accomplished since 2013.
In the absence of Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner due to injuries, Paolo Banchero assumed increased defensive responsibilities. He not only served as the offensive centerpiece for his team but also took on the challenge of guarding opposing star players.
Banchero's defensive efforts were impactful, limiting stars like Kawhi Leonard, Luka Dončić, and LeBron James when matched up against him. For example, Kawhi Leonard scored only 8 points on 3-of-8 shooting in minutes guarded by Banchero. Similarly, Luka Dončić managed 8 points on 3-of-8 shooting during their matchups. LeBron James scored 2 points on 1-of-3 shooting when guarded by Banchero.
Collectively, Banchero held this Lakers duo to 10 points on 4-of-11 shooting over approximately eight and a half minutes of gameplay. Banchero acknowledged the need to make it difficult for opposing players, stating that while defenders cannot stop stars, they can make them work harder for their points. Wendell Carter Jr. believes Banchero's versatility offers the potential to become one of the game's best two-way players.
