ORLANDO — The Magic have reportedly constructed an advanced holographic basketball laboratory in an attempt to solve the franchise’s biggest offensive question: exactly how much space Paolo Banchero needs before defenders are legally required to stop standing in the paint.
Orlando also brought Nikola Vučević back this offseason, reuniting the veteran center with the franchise where he spent much of his career.
Scientists simulated thousands of lineups around Banchero and Franz Wagner, adjusting spacing, shooting and ball movement.
Results repeatedly returned the same recommendation:
“More.”
The Magic then increased the shooting.
“Still more.”
Researchers briefly considered placing five shooters around Paolo before somebody pointed out Paolo would then have to watch from the bench, defeating the purpose.
Vučević has reportedly offered to help researchers by explaining several previous versions of Orlando basketball from personal experience.
Testing continues.
