Magic star Paolo Banchero sends clear message about Anthony Edwards about new face of NBA debate

On Friday night, the Minnesota Timberwolves extended their winning streak to seven games by defeating the Orlando Magic 118-111 at Target Center, a crucial result for their aspirations to secure a playoff spot in the 2024-25 NBA regular season. Following the game, Paolo Banchero shared his thoughts on Anthony Edwards.

“I love playing against Ant,” Banchero said during the post-game press conference, as shared by reporter Jason Beede on his X account. “I’ve spent some time with him, got to know him. He’s a great guy, a great competitor, so it’s always fun.”

At 22 and 23, respectively, Banchero and Edwards are two players often mentioned as potential future faces of the NBA. When asked about this, Paolo offered a candid response: “I think it’s great. Two young, talented players trying to lead their teams.”

Both young stars showcased their impressive skills and abilities during Friday’s game in Minnesota. Banchero led the charge for the Magic with a remarkable 43 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists. Meanwhile, Edwards was the Timberwolves’ top scorer with 28 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic drives to the basket against Kevin Knox II #31 of the Golden State Warriors

Banchero is finding his best form

The Orlando Magic missed Banchero for a significant portion of the season due to a right oblique muscle injury. Now fully recovered, the 2022 NBA Draft’s first overall pick is once again performing at an elite level. “I feel like I’m playing alright right now. I’m just trying to be aggressive, keep the defense on their toes, and just hunt my shots and play my game,” he said.

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However, Paolo’s standout performance wasn’t enough for the Magic to leave Target Center with a victory. Reflecting on the outcome, the forward explained: “I think we just came up short. We put up a good fight, made some good runs throughout the game, and gave ourselves a chance to win. They just made more plays than we did.”

What’s next for Orlando and Minnesota?

Following Friday’s victory, the Minnesota Timberwolves will have a prime opportunity to extend their win streak to eight when they face the Western Conference’s weakest team, the Utah Jazz, at home on Sunday. Keeping a close eye on the Golden State Warriors’ matchup with the New York Knicks on Saturday, the Timberwolves know that another win could propel them back into the playoff race.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic are in a different position, having lost seven of their last 10 games and fighting to remain in Play-In tournament contention. Their next challenge is a tough one: a road game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Eastern Conference leaders, on Sunday at Rocket Arena.