In a summer filled with NBA contract drama, one name has stood out: Paolo Banchero. At just 22 years old, the Orlando Magic star has signed a five-year rookie max extension worth $239 million, with incentives that could push it to $287 million. The deal signals the franchise's long-term commitment and raises the question: Is Banchero already ahead of his fellow top prospects like Jalen Suggs and Cade Cunningham?
Comparing the Class of 2021 and 2022: A Quick Overview
Here's a snapshot of the three rising stars:
| Player | Draft Year | Pick | Current Age | Team |
| Paolo Banchero | 2022 | 1st | 22 | Orlando Magic |
| Jalen Suggs | 2021 | 5th | 23 | Orlando Magic |
| Cade Cunningham | 2021 | 1st | 22 | Detroit Pistons |
While Banchero entered the league a year later, he has arguably made the biggest impact in the shortest time.
Paolo Banchero: A Franchise Star in the Making
Since entering the NBA, Paolo Banchero has consistently exceeded expectations. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2023 and earned his first All-Star selection in 2024. Over 198 career games, Banchero is averaging 22.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game.
As reported by ESPN, the Magic star agreed to a five‑year, $239 million rookie extension that could reach $287 million if he earns All‑NBA, MVP, or Defensive Player of the Year honours. This deal includes a player option in the 2030–31 season, an arrangement unseen in rookie extensions since Luka Dončić and Trae Young in 2021.
What sets him apart is his ability to produce in high‑pressure situations. He led the Magic to back‑to‑back playoff appearances and is already considered the franchise's centrepiece. Statistically, his scoring average is already among the highest in Orlando Magic history, trailing only Shaquille O'Neal and Tracy McGrady.
The recent extension is a clear indicator: Orlando believes they have their next superstar.
Jalen Suggs: Defensive Anchor, Not Offensive Leader
While Jalen Suggs was drafted ahead of Banchero, his trajectory has been much different. Known primarily for his defensive intensity and hustle, Suggs has found his niche as a reliable two-way player. However, his offensive output has remained modest, averaging just over 10 points per game across three seasons.
Suggs plays a vital role for the Magic, but not as their go-to scorer or leader. He complements Banchero well but hasn't developed into the franchise cornerstone many expected when he was selected fifth overall in 2021.
Cade Cunningham: Elite Talent Facing Setbacks
Cade Cunningham, the 2021 first overall pick, has shown flashes of elite talent but has struggled with injuries and team performance. After missing most of the 2022–23 season with a shin injury, he returned strong last year, averaging 26.1 points, 9.1 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game.
However, the Detroit Pistons remain at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, with no playoff appearances in Cunningham's tenure. While he has leadership qualities and a strong skillset, the lack of team success puts him behind Banchero in overall impact.
Banchero Leads the Pack
At just 22 years old, Paolo Banchero has outperformed expectations and surpassed his peers in nearly every metric, from individual accolades to team success. Jalen Suggs remains a strong defensive presence, and Cade Cunningham has elite potential, but neither has made the leap Banchero has.
If current trends continue, Banchero is not only the standout of his draft class but also a franchise-level talent destined for long-term NBA stardom.
