Paolo Banchero just secured the bag, big time. The Orlando Magic star has agreed to a five-year rookie max extension worth up to $287 million, making him one of the highest-paid young players in NBA history. The deal, which includes a player option for the final year (a first since 2021), starts at 25% of the salary cap and could rise to 30% if Banchero makes an All-NBA team or wins MVP or DPOY next season.
Soon after the news broke, Banchero took to X and posted a six-word message: “PLAY THE MF SONG ð♾ Let’s work.” The post perfectly captured his energy confident, motivated, and ready for what’s next.
Paolo Banchero
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) during game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden.
David Butler II-Imagn Images
The 22-year-old forward averaged 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists last season, despite missing time due to an oblique injury. That absence kept him from All-NBA consideration, but he still put on a show in the playoffs, averaging 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists in a tough first-round loss to the eventual champion Celtics.
Banchero’s deal solidifies him as the face of the franchise, alongside Franz Wagner, who also signed a max extension. The Magic didn’t stop there they made a splash during the NBA Finals, trading for sharpshooter Desmond Bane, giving up Cole Anthony, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and five first-round picks.
“Bane’s 41% career shooting from deep should open the floor for Paolo and Franz,” analysts noted, pointing to the Magic’s push to become a serious contender. Orlando already boasted the second-best defensive rating last season, and with added offensive firepower, they’re aiming higher.
The Magic are clearly betting on their young core and Paolo Banchero is leading the charge.