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TMZ.com
Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero is about to make the jump to elite status … so says Wendell Carter Jr., who tells TMZ Sports there’s no doubt in his mind his teammate will contend for the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award this season.
The 21-year-old former No. 1 overall pick improved in nearly every statistical category in his sophomore outing … earning himself All-Star honors after averaging 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.4 assists — and leading his Magic to the playoffs.
Many expect the former Duke standout to build off that momentum in his third season — including Carter, Jr., who spoke highly of the young hooper while out at LAX this week.
“He will be [an MVP candidate] for sure,” he told us.
For what it’s worth, the betting odds for Banchero to hoist the Michael Jordan Trophy this season are +50000 … so if you trust WCJ’s prediction, there’s a ton of money to be made.
As for his squad, Carter, Jr. also expects them to take things to the next level in the postseason … and he truly believes they can build off taking the Cleveland Cavaliers to Game 7 in their first-round matchup last year.
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In fact, when we asked if we could see Orlando in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2025, Carter Jr. didn’t hesitate with his response.