Kendrick Perkins calls Magic's Paolo Banchero 'biggest disappointment'

Former NBA player Perkins criticizes Banchero's regression this season as Magic struggle to meet expectations.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and current ESPN analyst, has labeled Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero as the 'biggest disappointment' in the league so far this season. Banchero, the 2022 first overall draft pick, has regressed from his promising rookie campaign, with poor shot selection, lapses on defense, and frequent injury concerns contributing to the Magic's 28-25 record, well below preseason expectations.

Why it matters

The Magic made a big offseason move to acquire Desmond Bane, signaling their intent to compete in the Eastern Conference. However, Banchero's struggles, combined with injuries to co-star Franz Wagner, have left the team fighting for a play-in tournament spot rather than a top-four seed. Banchero's development is crucial to the Magic's long-term success, and Perkins' harsh criticism highlights the need for the young star to improve his decision-making and consistency.

The details

Perkins called out Banchero's poor shot selection, occasional defensive lapses, and overall lack of progression from his rookie year. The Magic's 28-25 record is well below where most pundits projected them to be at this point in the season, and Banchero's struggles have been a major factor in the team's underperformance.

  • The Magic are currently preparing to return from the All-Star break.
  • The Magic will next play on Thursday evening against the Sacramento Kings.

The players

Kendrick Perkins

A former NBA player who is currently an ESPN analyst.

Paolo Banchero

The 2022 first overall draft pick for the Orlando Magic, who has regressed this season after a promising rookie campaign.

Desmond Bane

A guard acquired by the Magic in a major offseason trade, as the team looked to compete in the Eastern Conference.

Franz Wagner

A co-star of Banchero's on the Magic, who has also missed time due to injury this season.

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What they’re saying

“I will go a little further and say Paolo Banchero has been the biggest disappointment player-wise.”

— Kendrick Perkins, ESPN Analyst (NBA on ESPN)

What’s next

The Magic will look to turn their season around when they begin a West Coast trip on Thursday evening against the Sacramento Kings.

The takeaway

Banchero's struggles have been a major factor in the Magic's disappointing season, and Perkins' harsh criticism highlights the need for the young star to improve his decision-making and consistency if the team is to reach its preseason expectations.