The Orlando Magic knew they were getting something special in Paolo Banchero.
That is always the hope when you take a player with the first pick. You want a player you can build your franchise around. Someone who is the foundation for a brighter future.
Nobody wants to be in a position to pick first. It is not supposed to be a state of permanence. And considering the Magic’s last decade, winning the top pick felt hard-earned.
It is hard to remember how much debate there was at least outside of the Amway Center about who the Magic should take with that top pick.