Daily Fantasy Heat Check #12: Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero is about to enter his 5th year in the league. High expectations await the first overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft.
The Heat Check series focuses on players who are “stat monsters,” producers who are cornerstones of all kinds of fantasy league teams and contests.
2025-2026 SEASON STATS
Paolo Banchero
Regular Season Stats
22.2 points per game (46% shooting)
8.4 rebounds per game
5.2 assists per game
A lot of expectations are placed on Paolo Banchero this season. It is just reasonable–2022’s number 1 overall pick who was also the rookie of the year, made the all-star team in 2024, and arguably the best player in a young team with a good depth.
The Magic barely made the playoffs last year, and they almost kicked out the #1 seed–the Detroit Pistons–but they fumbled and blew a 3-1 series lead.
What does Paolo Banchero need to do this season to help his team?
Paolo’s strength is his 6’10”, 250-lb frame. He can dribble and he has an insane downhill game, and pundits are frustrated as to why he does not drive more often, like what a young LeBron James did. Paolo fell in love with the jumper–turn-arounds, step-backs, and fadeaways, but his percentages drop whenever he shoots. Shooting should not be the foundation of his game. If he starts driving more, he could open up things for a lot of his teammates.
Can he adjust this coming season?
For Laki Play Players: HOT! Paolo Banchero will surely perform every night he’s on the roster. He is a big man with guard skills, and a bad match-up for slower inside defenders.
Traditional Fantasy Players: MID! There are better picks in the forward position for the early rounds of the draft. Giannis, Tatum, KD, Pascal Siakam, among others. Paolo Banchero will be a good complement to a team, though.
