NBA legend Shaquille O?Neal took the league by storm as a rookie with the Orlando Magic. It had been a while since a rookie dominated the league to that extent. However, it was not completely surprising. Given Shaq’s physical prowess, many predicted he would immediately hit the ground running. But only a few thought he would dominate his opponents the way he did. Big Diesel excelled on both ends of the court and set the bar so high for the stars coming next. Now, Magic rookie Paolo Banchero has come one step closer to the four-time NBA champion.

After a one-and-done with the Duke Blue Devils, Banchero declared for the 2022 NBA draft. Amidst huge hype around the forward, he was predicted to go #1 in the draft. The Magic then selected him as the #1 pick. Banchero is having a stellar rookie season so far and recently joined the elite company of O’Neal.

Fans go wild after Paolo Banchero’s feat

Playing in 54 games this season, Paolo Banchero is averaging 19.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. With his consistent performances, he is leading the Rookie of the Year race this season. If he wins the award, he would be the first Orlando Magic star to win it after former #1 pick Shaquille O’Neal. However, he is already making strides in franchise history. Banchero had his 30th 20-point game recently with his 29-point performance against the New Orleans Pelicans. This was the most by a Magic rookie since O’Neal. As the stat was shared on social media, fans went wild. Many fans predicted Banchero’s future in the league. Here are some reactions:

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Many fans expressed that the rookie could follow in the footsteps of Shaq and join the Los Angeles Lakers. The Big Diesel’s move to the Lakers was not something the Magic fans would ever forget.

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Shaq helped the Magic become contenders, and when he left, they were scrapping for wins. So the fans would be hoping Bancher0 does not follow the same path.

Shaquille O?Neal as a rookie

Paolo Banchero’s 30th 20-point game is the most by a Magic rookie since Shaquille O?Neal. But can he beat Shaq’s record? He cannot. In his rookie season, O’Neal scored 20 points 60 times, playing in 81 games, according to Statmuse. He averaged 23.4 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game, winning the Rookie of the Year award deservedly.

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Even though Banchero might not be able to break the 20-point record of the 2000 NBA MVP, his record is still impressive. It will be interesting to see how he progresses in the league.

Do you think Paolo Banchero has what it takes to emulate Shaquille O’Neal’s success? Let us know in the comments.