Doc Rivers Weighs In on Magic’s Paolo Banchero-Franz Wagner Coexistence Challenge

Former Orlando Magic head coach Doc Rivers stated on the Bill Simmons Podcast that the franchise should consider splitting up the duo of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, expressing shock that neither player was traded over the summer. Rivers argued that the pair's skill sets do not fit together well, noting that if the front office must choose between them, he would select Banchero due to his overall skill level and versatility.

Writer Bobby Krivitsky argues that the tandem faces challenges due to three-point shooting limitations and overlapping skill sets. The article notes that Orlando instead opted to hire head coach Sean Sweeney to help maximize both young stars, though the Magic began their 2026-27 campaign with a 2-6 record.