Paolo Banchero’s $287 million max extension with the Orlando Magic cements his status as the franchise cornerstone, but the deal may come with a significant tradeoff. Bleacher Report predicts the 2022 No. 1 pick won’t receive a player option in the fifth year, a clause commonly included in superstar contracts.
While the financial commitment reflects Banchero’s value, the Magic’s history of team-friendly deals suggests they prioritized long-term flexibility over player concessions. This structure mirrors recent max extensions for Scottie Barnes and Cade Cunningham, though Orlando could have opted for even more restrictive terms.
The absence of a player option creates intriguing implications for Banchero’s future earning potential and the Magic’s ability to build around him. As the cap rises, his $287 million deal may prove beneficial for both parties—if Orlando continues ascending.
- Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic have agreed to a five-year rookie max extension worth up to $287 million, solidifying him as the franchise cornerstone.
- While the deal is a full max contract, Banchero may not receive a player option in the fifth year, reflecting Orlando’s history of team-friendly contracts.
- The extension parallels recent max deals for rising stars like Scottie Barnes ($224.2M) and Cade Cunningham (up to $269.1M), though Orlando reportedly preferred avoiding the 30% max criteria.
Paolo Banchero’s $287M Magic Deal: Will He Get a Player Option or Team-Friendly Terms?
Why Didn’t Banchero Get a Player Option in His Max Deal?
The Orlando Magic’s recent $287 million max extension with Paolo Banchero notably lacks a fifth-year player option, a clause commonly included in superstar contracts. Historically, the Magic prioritize team-friendly deals, as seen with their rigid structuring of Franz Wagner’s $224M extension last year.
Comparing Banchero’s Deal to Recent Rookie Extensions
| Player | Contract Value | Player Option |
|---|---|---|
| Paolo Banchero | $287M (potential) | No |
| Cade Cunningham | $269M | Yes (Year 5) |
Can the Magic Afford Their Big Three With Franz and Suggs’ Contracts?
Combined with Franz Wagner’s $224M and Jalen Suggs’ $150M deals, Orlando commits over $600M to their core. The team may need to shed salary by:
- Declining options for Mo Wagner and Gary Harris
- Trading Jonathan Isaac’s $17M expiring deal
Will Banchero Regret Signing Early Like De’Aaron Fox Did?
Sacramento’s Fox signed a max extension in 2021 without opt-outs, then saw superstars secure better terms later. Banchero risks similar “buyer’s remorse” if the 2026 CBA negotiation shifts power to players.
What Trades Will Orlando Make to Build Around Banchero?
With limited cap space, the Magic might pursue:
- Collin Sexton ($19M expiring) for scoring punch
- Dejounte Murray as two-way backcourt upgrade
How Does Banchero’s Deal Compare to Wembanyama’s Future Extension?
While Banchero secured 25% of the cap, Wembanyama could command 30% as the 2024 ROTY. The Spurs will likely include more player-friendly clauses given their history with Kawhi Leonard.
This creates an intriguing payroll disparity: Orlando’s rigid structure vs San Antonio’s star accommodation.
$287M for Banchero? Magic better hope he becomes the next LeBron. Otherwise, this deal could haunt them for years. 🏀💸
He’s already carrying their offense. Name one other player on that roster who’s half as good.
Yeah, but no player option? Orlando playing 4D chess while Banchero gets locked in.
Love that Banchero’s staying loyal to Orlando. Small-market teams need stars like him to stick around. No player option is a weird flex though.
287M and no player option? Banchero’s agent needs to be fired ASAP. 😂
Or maybe he just wants to win and trusts the front office? Not everything’s about money.
This contract is gonna age like milk when the Magic miss the playoffs again next year.
Banchero earning generational wealth while I’m here debating his contract on Reddit. Life’s unfair.