Ex-NBA player wants Paolo Banchero to take on role that Anthony Edwards rejected

Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero has signed a five-year rookie maximum contract extension with the franchise worth $239 million, potentially reaching $287 million if all incentives are met. Following the signing, Banchero declared his priority is to win an NBA Championship for Orlando.

Former NBA player Matt Barnes, reacting to the deal, urged the 22-year-old Banchero to embrace becoming one of the future "faces of the NBA." Barnes praised Banchero's size (6'9" or 6'10"), versatility, competitive drive ("he's a dog"), and accomplishments – including NBA Rookie of the Year and an All-Star selection – arguing he deserves consideration for this prominent league role within the next three to five years.

Barnes' co-host Rachel Nichols agreed, stating that winning Rookie of the Year inherently launches a player into that conversation. She implied Banchero's main hurdle is the lack of a deep playoff run on his resume. Banchero currently averages 22.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.

The discussion arises as current faces of the league, LeBron James and Stephen Curry, near retirement. While Minnesota's Anthony Edwards was seen as a frontrunner, he openly rejected the idea of being the NBA's face. Barnes and Nichols suggest the league could instead turn to Banchero or potentially Luka Doncic (now with the LA Lakers) to fill this role, emphasizing that Edwards' rejection leaves other options open.