Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

Orlando Magic: Paolo Banchero Enters LeBron James, Luka Doncic Territory in 38-Point Demolition Job of Cavaliers in Game 3

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Paolo Songco | Last updated 4/25/24

The Orlando Magic were in desperate need of a win on Thursday night as they hosted the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 3 of their first-round matchup. The Magic entered this game down 0-2 in the series and another loss would have virtually guaranteed an opening-round exit for them.

Paolo Banchero knew that the season was on the line for Orlando in this one, and he responded in a major way.

Orlando Magic News: Paolo Banchero Torches Cavs in Game 3

Banchero was a man on a mission on Thursday night. Orlando needed every bit of his magic against Cleveland, and Banchero answered the bell tremendously.

The second-year forward exploded for a game-high 31 points on 13-of-26 shooting, to go along with 14 rebounds, five assists, a steal, and zero turnovers in 29 minutes of action. To cap off his career night, the former No. 1 overall pick also went 4-of-9 from distance as he showcased his range.

Banchero has now entered LeBron James territory after his heroic performance in Game 3:

Paolo Banchero just became the 2nd-youngest player (21 years-165 days) in NBA History to begin his playoff career with 3 straight 20+ point games.

He trails only LeBron James (21-119).

(via @Magic_PR) pic.twitter.com/Upy0DN6NGP

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) April 26, 2024

Moreover, Banchero was only the fourth player in league history to ever produce these kinds of numbers at his age, joining LeBron, Luka Doncic, and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson:

Paolo Banchero becomes the 4th player in NBA history to tally 30 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in a playoff game at age 21 or younger, joining:

LeBron James (3x)
Luka Doncic
Magic Johnson#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google Pixel pic.twitter.com/oumafuXGYt

— NBA.com/Stats (@nbastats) April 26, 2024

Quite the company, right?

More importantly, though, Banchero and the Magic sent out a strong statement in this one by destroying the Cavs, 121-83. Orlando has now re-established itself in this series in a major way.

Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday in Orlando’s Kia Center.