Paolo Banchero Recaps 'Pretty Good' Offensive Performance

Orlando Magic head coach Sean Sweeney met with media following their first victory of the preseason a 122-118 win over the Memphis Grizzlies. 

Here are the major takeaways on what Banchero had to say:

Banchero said the Magic showed promising offensive organization, particularly in their ability to move into the next action without stalling. While he saw several positives to build on, he acknowledged there are still areas the team needs to clean up.

Banchero explained that involving Wagner in pick-and-roll actions creates a difficult matchup for opposing guards. He said the Magic want to use those opportunities whenever possible because having their two leading players involved in the same action benefits the entire offense.

Banchero said it was encouraging to see the team apply concepts from training camp and practice during a live game. Although the preseason doesn't carry the same stakes as the regular season, he viewed the early execution as a positive sign that the players are beginning to understand and implement the coaching staff's approach.

Banchero emphasized that shot selection matters more than the number of attempts from a particular area. He praised the Magic for attacking the paint, creating opportunities and finding open shooters on the perimeter. When those opportunities came, Orlando's players took advantage and shot well from 3-point range.

Banchero said the Magic's offensive flow was strong because players consistently moved into the next action instead of allowing possessions to become stagnant. He also highlighted the team's ability to read defensive rotations, explaining that when defenders collapse on the ball, players must recognize the situation and find the open teammate.

Banchero said his main priorities are finding his rhythm, maintaining the right level of aggression and adjusting to how opponents defend him and the Magic. He views the preseason as an opportunity to prepare for the regular season by understanding how teams will try to limit his effectiveness.

Banchero explained that catching the ball in the pocket creates an advantage by forcing the defense to account for multiple offensive options. From that position, the player can score, pass to an open shooter or find a rolling big near the basket. He said those situations create favorable opportunities for both the player receiving the ball and the overall offense.

Banchero praised Carter's continued development as a defender, particularly in pick-and-roll coverage and switching assignments. He said Carter has put in the work to become one of the NBA's better defensive big men, with the versatility to handle different schemes depending on what the team needs.

Banchero said his comfort with mid-range shooting dates back to his younger years, when he often took jumpers around the elbows, free throw line and short corners rather than relying heavily on 3-pointers. He has continued working to improve that part of his game in the NBA, focusing on getting deeper into the paint and taking shorter mid-range shots when available. He added that players must be prepared to make those shots when the defense gives them that opportunity.

Banchero said Boozer looked composed and ready for the professional level. He praised the rookie for playing within himself, making good decisions and taking appropriate shots, adding that Memphis has plenty of reasons to be encouraged by his performance.