The Orlando Magic gave Paolo Banchero the Rose Rule escalator in his max extension after the Pistons gifted it to Cade Cunningham last year. They felt the need to match the deal Detroit gave to the 2021 first overall selection, but Orlando may regret it if it adds millions to an already sticky financial situation. If Banchero makes third-team All-NBA this season, his contract goes from 25 to 30 percent of the salary cap in the 2026-27 campaign. It could add $48 million to the contract over the five years, which the Magic simply don’t have.
Orlando is projected to be over the second apron with Banchero making just 25 percent of the cap.